Life after breast cancer

BREAST cancer survival rates in Ireland are at their highest — it’s the second most common cancer, affecting more than 2,700 women a year.

Life after breast cancer is not problem-free. Women may have had lumpectomies or mastectomies, also weight gain and hair loss are associated with some treatments, and early menopause can be triggered. These can affect self-confidence and body image.

A study by the British charity, Breast Cancer Care, found that the majority (88%) of people who’ve had breast cancer say the disease, and its subsequent treatment, have negatively impacted how they feel about their body, with 68% saying it’s affected their sexual and intimate relationships, too.

Talking about these issues can make a huge difference, but 62% of respondents also reported not being able to talk to their doctor about the disease’s impact, and only 25% had been told about support and information related to body image, intimacy and sex.

“Women are bereft by the loss of a breast. Many find it more upsetting than the cancer diagnosis,” says Naomi Fitzgibbon, cancer information services manager at the Irish Cancer Society.

“They have been through a life-altering breast cancer treatment. Women have told me that their husbands can’t look at them any more.

“They are devastated by the loss of libido, because of some drugs they are on — maybe the reconstruction didn’t work, they can’t look at their body, or they are afraid to show their husbands or partners. And if they don’t have a relationship, they wonder how they are going to get into one.”

Coming to terms with these physical changes can be challenging and difficult, but many are unable to discuss their feelings, because they’re so grateful to be alive they believe they have no right to complain.

“Sometimes, women are afraid to talk about not having an intimate relationship with their partners when recovering from cancer, saying ‘I should be so grateful that I’m still alive’. But the loss of sexuality is more upsetting — it’s a grieving process,” says Fitzgibbon, who advises women to talk to others who’ve gone through a similar experience.

“Our support group, Reach to Recovery, includes women who are up to ten years after diagnosis and treatment. It encourages, it inspires, and it also gives support.”

For confidential support, there is also the National Cancer Helpline, which is staffed by specialist cancer nurses. Or, if there is a need to talk to a professional counsellor, the ICS also offers this.

* www.cancer.ie; National Cancer Helpline: 1800-200-700.