Did you know that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Brazil and throughout the world?

According to data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA), after non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer accounts for approximately 28% of new cases each year.

In addition, although it is rare before the age of 35, after this age the incidence increases, especially after the age of 50.

As there are several types of breast cancer, which evolve slowly and others quickly, most cases have a good prognosis. And the treatment of breast cancer can also vary a lot, according to the tumour of each patient.

TREATMENT METHODS

Types of treatment: radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and mastectomy, i.e. surgery for partial or total removal of the breast.

Mastectomy was the first medical procedure capable of curing cancer, as it consists of removing the breast, preventing the tumour from spreading to other organs and not continuing to develop.

However, as the female breast is one of the most valued parts of the body, since it refers to values associated with fertility and femininity, it is very difficult for a woman who has undergone surgery to have her breast removed.

With this in mind, this article brings some tips on how to deal with self-esteem after breast removal. Read on:

BEFORE MASTECTOMY (REMOVAL OF THE BREAST) SEEK PSYCHOLOGICAL HELP

The woman undergoing surgery needs, from the outset, to understand that it may affect her psychologically almost as much as physically.

For this reason, one alternative is to explore therapies that help deal with the emotional effects, even before the procedure.

SEEK SUPPORT FROM GROUPS AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS

Share your reality and experiences in a support group or Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs). As such, many of them have the scope to support women who are going through the same situation as you!

There are several initiatives that try to collaborate with the self-esteem and empowerment of women who have faced mastectomy. The NGO Meninas de Peito supports thousands of women in this condition. Among them, there is total freedom to talk about the treatment, share doubts about chemotherapy, the adverse effects, celebrate test results, exchange tips on makeup, scarves, wigs, and other "little secrets". All this helps to raise self-esteem and get around the side effects of the strong medications.

OPT FOR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY

Did you know that breast reconstruction surgeries for breast cancer cases are provided free of charge by the Single Health System (SUS)?

Law 9.797 of 1999 guarantees women who have undergone total or partial mastectomy, reconstructive plastic surgery, and in case of technical and medical conditions, the procedure can occur soon after the removal of the cancer.

The law was created taking into consideration that the removal is considered an emotional mutilation to the woman. Especially because the breast is a symbol of female identity and fertility.

It is possible to go through a mastectomy with high self-esteem!

Remember, a woman battling breast cancer can learn to love her body after the procedure. Therefore, she can feel as full of femininity and confidence as she did before the surgery. Also, never forget to stay positive, as it is entirely feasible to pass a mastectomy with high self-esteem.

So, what did you think of today's content on how to maintain self-esteem even after breast removal surgery? Share your opinion or experience with us in the comments, because we'll be happy to help!

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