Julia had to adapt to life after mastectomy but she and her husband were also able to do this successfully.
Transcript
My boobs were an important part of my sex life and I miss that one for that reason. In terms of intimacy, erotic reasons, I guess, but other than that, if anything, it’s deepened our relationship. So it’s not an issue, my other breast is different now. I don’t really know what that’s about but, no, I wouldn’t say in the big scheme of things it makes a difference. One way or the other. And I’m not that keen on wearing a prosthesis. I often don’t in the winter and I absolutely don’t when I do yoga or if I’m swimming. I used to, it’s very uncomfortable so to me comfort is, how I feel is much more important than how I look. And (name husband), I always say to him do you mind if I walk around with one boob and he’s like “It’s your body I’m fine whatever you want.” So and I think I’m lucky that way because I think a lot of men would not feel the same way.
More from: Julia
More content
- Endocrine (hormone) therapy – JuliaAfter having tried the hormones twice, Julia decided to stop and was then offered a surgery to remove the ovarian tubes (oophorectomy).
- Finding and sharing information – JuliaJulia would have liked to know about resources earlier; she asked her surgeon if she could bring him some material to distribute.
- Positive effects on self – JuliaJulia describes how she has become more assertive and she feels she is better in doing things when she thinks of it.
- Coping strategies – JuliaJulia’s meditation group was a better fit for her needs even though it was not focused on cancer.
- Sexuality, femininity and intimacy – JuliaJulia had to adapt to life after mastectomy but she and her husband were also able to do this successfully.
- Follow-up care and the risk of recurrence – JuliaJulia had a family history of cancer. She is trying to strike a balance between being vigilant and maintaining a sense of optimism.