Managing your body image & cancer treatment
The physical changes that can result from breast cancer are well-known . However , breast cancer also can lead to emotional changes . In fact , treatments that are designed to beat cancer can have negative effects on a woman ’ s body image and self-esteem .
Body image is a complex post-treatment concern for breast cancer patients and survivors , and one that may not be as widely addressed as other issues . A study titled “ Body Image in Younger Breast Cancer Survivors ” that was published in the journal Cancer Nursing found that body image is a large concern and has a profound impact on aspects of cancer survivorship , particularly among young breast cancer survivors .
The American Cancer Society notes that many women experience various changes in appearance while undergoing cancer treatments . These can include anything from changes in weight ( increase or decrease ), hair loss , surgical removal of breasts , scarring , lack of sexual interest from fluctuating hormones , and much more . Even though health care providers are good at targeting the immediate challenges of the disease , emotional support is not always part of their post-treatment follow-up .
Mary Jane Esplen , a psychooncologist at the University of Toronto , says she has heard from breast cancer survivors who have battled with body image after treatment . In various therapy
STORY AND PHOTO SUBMITTED
BODY IMAGE ISSUES AND OTHER EMOTIONAL SIDE EFFECTS CAN OCCUR AS A RESULT OF BREAST CANCER TREATMENT .
sessions , Esplen has learned that some women give up swimming and wearing swimsuits , while others avoid mirrors or get dressed in the dark . Esplen advises that participating in post-treatment therapy and support groups can help women battling body image issues after breast cancer treatment .
It ’ s important that women undergoing breast cancer treatment recognize that many of the physical effects of treatment are temporary or can be mitigated . For example , hair loss can be traumatic , but with time hair will regrow . In the interim , women can wear fashionable wigs and head covers .
Some treatment-related changes may be permanent . A complete or partial mastectomy can transform the way the breasts look or make them less sensitive to touch . Many women opt to have reconstructive surgery or use a breast prosthesis . One change women may not anticipate is how chemotherapy can affect their hormone levels and their sexual interest or response . Being open with a romantic partner about physical and emotional feelings can help couples effectively work together to find various workarounds to assist with pain , dryness , trouble reaching orgasm , and other sexual issues .
Many women struggle with body image and emotional changes following breast cancer treatment . With patience and a strong support network , various issues can be addressed and possibly remediated .
DM
22 DUNCAN MAGAZINE | SPRING 2023