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How to talk to partner about reconstruction?

Page last modified on: October 7, 2008

Question from Smith: I'm single and worried about how future partners will deal with my reconstructed breasts. What's a good way to explain the scars, lack of feeling, etc?: Answer —Leslie Schover, Ph.D.: I think that when you are close enough to a partner to be considering having sex together that it is important to discuss your history of breast cancer, or if you had the mastectomy as a preventive measure, perhaps your high risk. I think you need to be honest about why you have scars, and also tell your partner that breast caressing may not bring the same pleasure as it used to for you.

On Wednesday, February 20, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Sex, Intimacy, and Breast Cancer. Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D. and Kara Nakisbendi, M.D. answered your questions about sexual side effects of breast cancer and breast cancer treatment, and what you can do about them.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Leslie R. Schover, Ph.D. is a renowned psychologist with a special interest in helping people resolve or manage their sexual problems, especially those problems connected with a chronic illness such as cancer.

Kara Nakisbendi, M.D. is a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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