Causes and risk factors

The following have been suggested as risk factors for vaginal cancer:

• Age – half of women affected are older than 60, with most between ages 50 and 70.
• Exposure to diethylstilbestrol as a fetus (mother took DES during pregnancy). 
• History of cervical cancer. 
• History of cervical precancerous conditions.
• Human papillomavirus infection. 
• Vaginal irritation. 
• Uterine prolapse. 
• Smoking.