SEXUALITY, ILLNESS AND HEALTH: SOME GUIDELINES TO HELP WITH MASTETCOMY
There are some new operations for reconstructive surgery that are “one step” and do not require lengthy or multiple hospitalizations. Take some time first, and then consider that possibility if you think it might be helpful. As with the tubes they put in men’s penises for erection, there is no “need” to do so. Such surgery is a matter of personal and marital preference.
Almost eight out of a hundred women may have breast cancer. Men can have breast cancer, too (at a lower rate). Do a breast self-exam every month. It is a necessary part of any wellness program. If you have breast cancer, you are not alone. Having breast cancer is like having high blood pressure; you are lucky if you found it out. Those who don’t will suffer much more.
You don’t have to be like the women on television. Recently there have been many movies and specials about breast and other forms of cancer and the extraordinary courage of some persons as they face this disease.
You are creating your own special. Adjust in your own way. Heroes are for Hollywood. Cry, complain, sulk, and yell if you want to.
Brief psychotherapy can be of some help if you hire the right therapist. If you feel things are moving too slowly, check Appendix II to determine when you need a therapist for sexual problems. Be careful and help the therapist focus on your problem. As one of my patients stated, “Just because I’m crazy doesn’t mean I need a lot of therapy. I would just like to fine-tune my craziness a little. This breast cancer threw me out of whack. I just need a little adjusting.”
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