Depression after mastectomy - a reality

The breast is a characteristic organ of women, which in addition to being linked to femininity is also a symbol of fertility and vanity.

For the treatment of breast cancer, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and mastectomy can be performed, which is to remove partially or completely one or both breasts.

All of these treatments are of great help, but breast removal is a treatment considered definitive and often the preferred treatment in these cases. But it can have emotional consequences for the woman, if she is not prepared.

Recovery after breast removal includes the use of medication to relieve pain, the application of a dressing and exercises to keep the arm on the operated side mobile and strong.

Most women are able to recover well after the procedure and do not develop complications, however complete recovery usually takes between 1 and 2 months and may need other treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

With breast removal, women lose self-esteem and vanity, and it is common to feel depressed, often needing support. But a woman who has battled cancer can learn to like her body after breast removal, while still being feminine and safe, only if there is preparation.

As soon as you know you need to remove the breast, see a psychologist

In order to prevent it before removing the breast, it is important to talk to a psychologist, expressing your concerns about the surgery, your fears and your doubts, this way you will be more prepared to face the situation.

Count on the support of family and friends

The support of family and friends is essential in these situations, because the intimacy that exists, will make you open up more about your own fears about the surgery, and how the absence of your breasts will make you feel. The closest people will also be the most present throughout the process.

Talk to other women who have gone through the same

The experience of other people who had to remove the breast, will make them not feel like a fish out of the water, they will know that other women also went through the same, and that in the end they managed to resume their lives normally and without prejudice.

Opt for breast reconstruction, or application of prostheses

After breast removal, a very frequent option is the use of prostheses to replace the breast, or even perform a surgical reconstruction. In some countries breast reconstruction for cancer victims is free and is a routine procedure, but in Mozambique it is not, so most women choose to use a prosthesis.

Some signs that you may be in depression after breast removal

When you think about breast removal, you don't think how much this organ symbolizes a woman, because the main concern is the cure of the disease. Because of this, many times, after the breast removal, the woman may show some emotional changes that sometimes only with the support of professionals, it is possible to identify its connection with the breast removal.

The most common signs are crying attacks for no apparent reason, constantly associated with pessimistic thoughts about yourself and the people around you.

Over time, the feeling of guilt begins to appear, and a tendency to move away from friends and family is common, afraid of being judged or of stimulating the feeling of pity in those closest to you, always having an irritable attitude.

At this point, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional, so that the woman can manage emotions better, and be advised. If this step is not taken, more serious consequences may occur, such as the desire to take your own life.