Breast cancer and its influence on your sexual well-being

But beyond the stats, screening drives, and events, are deeply personal stories of lives transformed, not only by the disease itself, but by an often overlooked and sometimes ignored aftermath: your sex life.

There are various types of breast cancer, with the most common being ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive ductal carcinoma. Treatments differ based on the type and stage of the cancer and can range from surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of these approaches.

The physiological impacts of breast cancer and its treatments are vast. They can lead to changes in the breast's appearance and feel, pain, scarring, and profound fatigue from chemotherapy, among other side effects. All these can influence a woman's perception of her body and her sense of femininity.

Every year, millions of women globally are diagnosed with this disease. The data tells us that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. It remains the most diagnosed cancer among women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for women in numerous countries.

Treatments for breast cancer come with their own set of implications, and some directly affect one's sexual well-being.

• Fatigue: More than just feeling "a tad tired", this fatigue can be all-consuming and persistent. It can dampen the desire for intimacy or any form of sexual activity.
• Hot flashes: Especially prevalent in women undergoing hormone therapy, hot flashes can unexpectedly turn an intimate moment awkward and unsettling.
• Vaginal dryness: Some treatments can lead to a reduction in oestrogen levels, causing vaginal dryness. This condition can make sexual encounters painful and less enjoyable, sometimes necessitating the use of lubricants to enhance comfort.

• Mastectomy: The removal of one or both breasts can be a profound challenge, both physically and emotionally. The overwhelming feeling of "loss" can hinder the acceptance of this transformed body and the resumption of a fulfilling sex life.
• Other surgeries: Procedures like reconstructive surgery or the insertion of implants can also influence sexuality. While some women find comfort and a renewed sense of confidence from these surgeries, others might feel a degree of discomfort or a sense of unfamiliarity with their new body.

Mourning your pre-cancer body image: Scars, partial or total removal of a breast, and other visible changes demand a grieving process. Women often grapple with the loss of a body they once knew, a body they had learned to love, cherish, and identify with.

The Impact on self-confidence and self-esteem: Self-confidence is deeply entwined with body image. When this image is disrupted, confidence can waver. Women might feel less "womanly", less powerful, less competent, and may doubt their ability to attract or be loved. This dip in self-esteem can ripple beyond the bedroom, impacting daily, professional, and social lives.