As you deal with your cancer and the treatment process, you need to have frank, open discussions with your cancer care team. You should feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how trivial it might seem. Among the questions you might want to ask are:

• What kind of vaginal cancer do I have?
• Has my cancer spread beyond the primary site?
• What is the stage of my cancer? What does the staging mean in my case?
• What treatment choices do I have?
• Based on what you've learned about my cancer, how long do you think I'll survive?
• What side effects can I expect from my treatment?
• How long will it take me to recover from treatment?
• When can I go back to work after treatment?
• Will I be able to have sex after treatment? What reconstructive surgery, if any, will I need?
• What are the chances that my cancer will come back?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• Should I get a second opinion?

You will no doubt have other questions about your own personal situation. Be sure to write your questions down so that you remember to ask them during each visit with your cancer care team. Keep in mind, too, that doctors are not the only ones who can provide you with information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, may have the answers you seek.

Revised 10-22-03