The woman’s body image related to the breast cancer treatment : A literature review

Background There are different types of treatments for breast cancer, and these may be of surgical and non-surgical art. These treatments produce different side effects that can cause both physical and mental harm to the woman. The breast cancer can change the women's body image and relationships to their families. The women manage their lives in different ways depending on which culture they belong to. Aim The aim of the study was to elucidate women’s experience of her body and the altered body in relation to breast cancer treatment. Method The method used was a literature review based on scientifically articles to overview the field of breast cancer. For the systematic and unsystematic search nine articles were found and used to present the results. Results The result was based on analyzes of the nine articles and three main themes revealed: To take control, To change and To meet the cultural ideal. Conclusion Women with breast cancer often experience hair loss as the most difficult part of the treatment. It’s therefore important that the women is prepared to what is going to happen for being able to handle the new situation. By preparing in different ways women handle their situation easier. It’s important for the women to feel normal and maintain their identity and role in the family.