The Emotional Aftermath of Breast Cancer Treatment

More important than the physical effects of breast cancer to some women is the emotional aftermath that comes with having battled the brutal disease. Many women are left with scars both physically and emotionally after undergoing breast cancer treatment. Some of these scars develop from having to fight such a potentially debilitating disease as well as having to undergo what can be considered a very tough course of treatment for most breast cancer cases.

Much of the emotional wounding stems from the physical scars remaining from treatment. For example, many women who have had surgery, particularly a mastectomy, feel inadequate in terms of beauty, femininity, and attractiveness. They may lose sexual desire or feel sexually unattractive to their partners because they are physically scarred. They may also actually lose feeling around the healed wound or may dislike being touched around the wound or even on the remaining breast. It is important for these women to have plenty of support in order to regain their self image and confidence. The best solution for this reaction is simply time and good counseling.

Another major impact is the continued use of prescription drugs. Having already undergone many painful and often times debilitating treatments, the last thing a woman may want to do is to continue to take drugs for a few years afterward. However, taking these prescription drugs is usually a part of life for women post-cancer. The emotional impact of having to continue to take drugs with physical side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and increased risk of developing yet another type of cancer can be emotionally draining. Young women who have been diagnosed with this trying disease may find the prescription drugs they must take post-cancer interrupting their dreams of having a family because the drugs may affect their fertility. Older women in the prime of their lives may find themselves experiencing the uncomfortable effects of menopause without being able to treat their symptoms with common estrogen-based therapy because of an increased risk in breast cancer.

Women who are experiencing these types of difficult physical and emotional after effects should talk to their doctor about seeking out a support group or counseling program. With today’s technology, women can even join a support group without leaving the house; there are groups online and message boards where survivors, their friends, and family can post. A well formulated support system is the key to most women’s successfully overcoming the aftermath of cancer. Support groups can also provide similar stories of experiences with post-cancer drugs and treatments.