There is no denying that treatment for breast cancer can change the way your body looks.  Surgery can leave scars, chemo may result in hair loss and many put on weight.

While most effects are temporary, we understand it can be upsetting to see your body change, especially when those changes are out of your control.  It can knock your confidence and self-esteem.

The first time you look at your body after surgery can be difficult; your breast/chest area is likely to be bruised and swollen but this will reduce.  It may take a few attempts to feel OK looking at yourself, but initial intense feelings will lessen as you get used to the change.  Research suggests that the sooner you confront the physical changes to your body, the easier you should find it to gain confidence in the way you look.  Let your loved one see the scars and changes to your body. This is the new you and learning to love the new you is all part of the recovery process.

Some studies have shown that immediate breast reconstruction can help a woman adjust.  Most women who have breast reconstruction are satisfied with the result, even while they feel unsure of their new shape or new breast(s).  Not everyone feels reconstruction is for them, and some opt for a breast prosthesis/artificial breast instead to fit in the bra cup. Your Breast Care Nurse can talk you through this option and an appointment can be arranged for you at the Breast Centre.

A combination of reduced activity during treatment and drugs that may increase appetite cause many people to gain weight during and after treatment.  Putting on weight can affect how you feel about your body, however some simple and basic changes to the way you eat and exercise can help manage your weight.  We’ve put together a few exercise tips to help.

For many women, treatment can also trigger the onset of menopausal symptoms by interrupting the production or effect of female hormones.  At a time when you’ve already got enough going on, symptoms can affect how you feel about your body, about intimacy and about sex, including:

• hot flushes

• night sweats

• loss of desire

• changes to how you experience orgasm

• vaginal dryness and pain

If you think you are affected, please be open with your treatment team; they are there to help  you. 

And finally, let’s talk about hair loss. For many people their hair is an important aspect of their identity; losing it can be one of the hardest things to accept and is another factor that can knock self-esteem and confidence.  Hair loss is almost always temporary, and hair usually starts to grow back once chemotherapy has finished, sometimes sooner.  In the meantime, The Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre in Derriford provide a great wig fitting service.  Speak to your Breast Care Nurse about it or call The Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre direct on 01752 430060.

We know it’s hard and treatment is tough and so we are all there to support you to face up to it. 

Start by being open and honest about the way you feel; it’s good to talk and it’s OK not to be OK.