The Impact of Breast Cancer on Self-Image

A breast cancer diagnosis brings about many losses: © stock.adobe.com.

A breast cancer diagnosis brings about many losses. These may include: the loss of ability to work and engage in family and social life as you once did, the fear of loss of life, and the loss of self-image. Breast cancer often leads to changes in appearance in ways that can feel dehumanizing or outside of traditional aesthetic standards.

While to some this loss may seem small compared to everything else being impacted by the disease, the blow to self-esteem these losses can cause is devastating, and contributes further stress to an already difficult situation. It is important to normalize discussion of these losses and acknowledge that the pain they cause is valid. Continue reading to learn how side effects such as weight gain, hair loss, and surgical changes can impact those with cancer – and how to acknowledge and process the emotions that come along with them.

Treatment-related weight gain

Weight gain is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment. This can be caused by numerous factors. It may be more difficult to exercise during cancer treatment due to pain, fatigue, and nausea. Additionally, some medications and treatments can cause weight gain, such as steroids or corticosteroids, which can increase appetite. Corticosteroids in particular can also increase fatty tissue, which may additionally cause loss of muscle mass.

Chemotherapy is another common cause of weight gain. Despite the nausea often associated with chemotherapy, some people find that treatment causes them to crave sweets and carbohydrates. Additionally, it can bring on early menopause, which can slow metabolism and cause weight gain around the stomach. On average, women gain between 5 to 14 pounds over the course of a year during chemotherapy.

While these treatments can be life-saving, the side effects are incredibly difficult to experience. It is important to remember that our society in particular glorifies a “thin ideal,” which can make any amount of weight gain feel distressing. For those who are used to their body looking a certain way, this sudden loss of control can be deeply upsetting and cause major blows to their confidence and self-worth.