How to deal with self esteem issues after breast cancer

• There are many doctors, including gynecologists and physicians specializing in sexual issues related to cancer treatment, who are informed and available to talk through self-esteem concerns that arise during breast cancer treatment.

• Women have many concerns during and after breast cancer treatment, including worries about changes in their bodies and worries about their sexual performance or functioning.

• Seek the advice of other women who have gone through breast cancer treatment and have dealt with some of the same self-esteem concerns.

• There are useful adaptations and coping skills that sometimes include the use of medication or just simply thinking through what you will wear.

• As far as keeping a positive outlook during treatment, if you have days when your mood is down or low, it won’t affect your chance of survival. However, if you do become so discouraged that it affects your compliance with your doctor's treatment recommendations, this may start to affect your outcome.

• Many women wonder if stress caused their cancer. There is no evidence that supports the theory that stress or low mood causes cancer. However, stress is not good for anyone. It is important to try to manage your stress while going through breast cancer treatment.

• Once you complete treatment you will still have periodic checkups and testing with your doctor for the rest of your life. It is very common for women to experience insomnia and anxiousness before their follow-up visits and while waiting for results of diagnostic tests.

• Don't underestimate the power of a positive role model. Speak with other women who have gone through this process. Simply seeing a beautiful, competent, confident woman, who has gone through breast cancer treatment can be a very positive and affirming experience for a women who is battling the disease.

For more information about how to deal with appearance and sexual self esteem concerns, go to www.komen.org or call Komen for the Cure’s helpline at 1-800-IM AWARE.