Body image changes after ovarian cancer treatment are really common — a lot of women struggle with side effects like scars or other physical changes that can come after surgery. However, it’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary.
Even the scars that come with surgery do fade over time. Marisa Gholson, a Physicians Assistant at Compass Oncology in Portland, Oregon, said that many women begin to embrace their scars. “Some ladies will call them a badge of honor, that they have gone through that surgery,” Gholson said. She also noted, however, that scars — like many of the other side effects that come with ovarian cancer treatment — will become significantly less prominent over time.
Surgeries may also involve removing some or all of a woman’s reproductive organs, which can take a toll on body image as well. When it comes to these side effects, keeping emotional health in check — whether that means seeing a therapist, visiting support groups, or simply learning to accept your situation — is also an important part of the cancer journey.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Marisa Gholson is a Physicians Assistant at Compass Oncology. Read More
Body image changes after ovarian cancer treatment are really common — a lot of women struggle with side effects like scars or other physical changes that can come after surgery. However, it’s important to note that many of these changes are temporary.
Even the scars that come with surgery do fade over time. Marisa Gholson, a Physicians Assistant at Compass Oncology in Portland, Oregon, said that many women begin to embrace their scars. “Some ladies will call them a badge of honor, that they have gone through that surgery,” Gholson said. She also noted, however, that scars — like many of the other side effects that come with ovarian cancer treatment — will become significantly less prominent over time.
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Surgeries may also involve removing some or all of a woman’s reproductive organs, which can take a toll on body image as well. When it comes to these side effects, keeping emotional health in check — whether that means seeing a therapist, visiting support groups, or simply learning to accept your situation — is also an important part of the cancer journey.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Marisa Gholson is a Physicians Assistant at Compass Oncology. Read More
