For many women, breasts represent femininity, sexuality, comfort, fertility, beauty and being normal. Breasts are more than a body part. Many emotions are connected to breasts and for each woman it can be a little different.
Many women have not truly thought about what their breasts mean to them until they are facing surgery that will change how they look. Women may think about how they value themselves and how others value them.
You have options:
- Consider wearing a wig, hat, turban and/or scarf if you lose your hair due to chemotherapy treatment
- Consider attending the Look Good...Feel Better Program in your area if you want to learn more about skin care and the application of make-up during treatment
- Discuss your nutritional needs with a dietitian during and after treatment
- Consider consulting with a plastic surgeon for breast reconstruction
- Consider being fitted with a breast prosthesis
- Talk with your health care team about an exercise program
Social workers and psychologists who work with cancer patients are trained to help women who experience these feelings. You should feel comfortable to contact them for an appointment as this is a normal part of your treatment and cancer recovery.