NAVIGATING SHADOWS OF MASTECTOMY: BODY IMAGE AND SEXUAL LIFE OF WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is not only a life-threatening illness but also a deeply personal and transformative experience for women. Mastectomy, a common treatment for breast cancer, significantly alters body image and may deeply affect a woman's sense of femininity, sexuality, and overall quality of life. Understanding these psychological and emotional impacts is crucial to providing holistic care. Objective: This study aims to explore the lived experiences of women who have undergone mastectomy, with a focus on how the surgery affects their body image and sexual life. By uncovering the nuanced and personal dimensions of these changes, the study seeks to inform more empathetic, individualized support systems in oncology and psychosocial care. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological approach was employed to capture the subjective experiences of participants. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 women aged 30 to 60 years, who had undergone mastectomy within the last 1 to 5 years. Participants were recruited from oncology clinics and breast cancer support groups. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and emotional narratives related to body image and sexuality post-mastectomy. Results: Many women reported feeling less of a woman or incomplete, struggling to reconcile their post-surgery body with societal and personal ideals of femininity. Participants described a decline in sexual desire, avoidance of intimacy, and a sense of loss in their sexual identity, often exacerbated by fear of rejection or partner discomfort. Some women found empowerment through reconstructive surgery, tattoos, or redefining beauty on their own terms, while others chose to embrace their scars as symbols of survival. Participants expressed a strong desire for more open communication with healthcare providers about body image and sexual health, highlighting a significant gap in cancer care. Conclusion: Mastectomy profoundly influences women's perceptions of their bodies and sexuality, often leading to emotional distress, relational challenges, and identity struggles. Addressing these issues requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates psychological support, sexual health counseling, and patient-centered communication. This study underscores the importance of creating safe spaces for women to voice their experiences and access resources that support both physical recovery and emotional healing.

Keywords: Breast Cancer, Mastectomy, Body image, Sexuality