Intimacy after a Mastectomy

Mastectomy, a surgery that removes one or both breasts as a means to prevent the spread of cancer, can cause serious emotional and psychological toll.  Poor body image, low self-esteem and low sex drive are only some of the psychological effects of losing a body part that is long considered an erogenous zone. Losing one or both breasts might cause a woman to feel differently about her sexuality and greatly affect her physical intimacy with her partner.  If you are one of these women, the tips below will help you become more comfortable with intimacy after having a mastectomy.

Stay positive. Having a positive attitude is very important. A positive attitude will speed up the process of emotional and physical healing. Although you have lost a body part that is strongly associated to intimacy, you are the same sexually alluring person who has shared many intimate moments with your partner. It is essential that you are able to overcome all your negative feelings.

Be active. Keeping an active and healthy lifestyle will make you feel good about yourself. Regular exercises release endorphins, a group of "feel good" chemical compounds.

Communicate. Communication is a very important aspect of regaining and maintaining a healthy sex life. Be honest and share your feelings, fears, and concerns about resuming physical intimacy with your partner after mastectomy. Accept and acknowledge what you both feel and be patient with each other. Keep in mind that your partner will also feel the changes, and he also needs time to make the necessary readjustments. Generously give each other support since this is a challenging time for the both of you.

Be patient. Take each day, one a time. Do not be too hard on yourself and make unrealistic goals in your relationship. Make this an opportunity to rediscover yourself and your partner. A great way to resume physical intimacy is to have your partner help you with the recommended arm exercises. Make some modifications with the exercises. Dance slow with a nice romantic background. Show your partner where you want to be touched. If your physician gave you a go signal to resume sexual activities and if you feel you are up to it, you can start by avoiding a position where the body changes are more apparent, like staying on top. 

To improve self-esteem, consider a breast prosthesis.  Breast reconstruction techniques can greatly improve the appearance of your breast, which can enhance self-worth and increase your self-confidence.

Mastectomy can bring about many changes, including your sex life. But all it needs is patience, time and an open communication between you and your partner. With mutual support, you will physical and sexual intimacy is regained.

Better kissing = better sex.

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