Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affects countless women every year. It is a physical and emotional battle that takes its toll on the body and mind. But one thing that many breast cancer survivors have in common is the desire to reclaim their bodies and their femininity after the trauma of treatment. One way that many women do this is by taking boudoir photos. This post will explore the reasons why many women choose to take boudoir photos after breast cancer.
Reclaiming Their Bodies
One of the most significant reasons why women take boudoir photos after beating breast cancer is to reclaim their bodies. Breast cancer treatment can cause a variety of physical changes, including hair loss, weight gain, and scarring. These changes can be difficult to accept, and many women feel like they have lost control of their bodies. Taking boudoir photos gives women a way to celebrate and appreciate their bodies in a way that feels empowering.
Boosting Self-Confidence
Another reason why women take boudoir photos after beating breast cancer is to boost their self-confidence. Breast cancer treatment can be a long and difficult process, and it can take a toll on a person’s self-esteem. Many women feel like they are not the same person they were before the diagnosis. Taking boudoir photos can help women to see themselves in a different light and to appreciate their beauty, even after the trauma of treatment.
Creating a Positive Memory
Many women choose to take boudoir photos after beating breast cancer as a way to create a positive memory of the experience. Breast cancer treatment can be a difficult and traumatic time, and it can be hard to remember the positive moments. Taking boudoir photos gives women a tangible reminder of the strength and beauty that they possess. It allows them to look back on the experience with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Boudoir After Breast Cancer
A very inspiring client of mine gave permission for me to share her boudoir photos and her story in hopes it will help other women with the same journey. Below is her story…
Hi, My name is Nicole. I was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer on April 7, 2014 (not a date one soon forgets). I was 26 years old and living on my own. I was immediately started on chemotherapy and went through six rounds. Thankfully I was able to continue working, as my employer at the time loaned a laptop to me so I could stay home the weeks that I received treatment.
Following chemo, I had a double mastectomy and had to attend radiation every day for 12 weeks. After that, I had major reconstructive surgery. The reconstructive surgery involved taking tissue and skin from my stomach and moving it up to create new breasts – overall there were four surgeries involved with this and I ended up getting breast implants under the transplanted tissue. I chose not to have my plastic surgeon create nipples, as I knew I was going to cover my scars and discoloration with beautiful tattoos.
The information above sounds like a lot to go through (and don’t get me wrong – it was no walk in the park), but there were moments of inspiration throughout my cancer journey. It was incredible to see the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers. So many people were willing to jump in and help – whether that meant staying with me the weeks I had chemo, dropping off meals, watching my dog, or even giving items that are needed while going through treatment. I was very fortunate to have an army behind me through it all.
Later on I decided to do a boudoir photo shoot as an anniversary gift for my husband. I had my concerns about doing boudoir considering I have scars on my stomach and chest, but it was honestly liberating and empowering! Of course, I still get self conscious about my body, but I’ve learned to love it, not despite my scars, but because of my scars. This body kicked cancer’s butt, and should be celebrated! I hope these photos will inspire people, especially young women who may be going through their own journeys with cancer, to embrace their scars and be confident in their own skin!
Final Thoughts
Taking boudoir photos after beating breast cancer is a personal decision that is different for every woman. However, for many women, it is a way to reclaim their bodies, boost their self-confidence and create a positive memory. Breast cancer is a difficult and traumatic experience, but taking boudoir photos can be a powerful way for women to celebrate their strength and beauty. It is a reminder that they are still the same person they were before the diagnosis, and that their beauty and femininity are not defined by the physical changes that come with treatment.
In conclusion, boudoir photography is an empowering way for breast cancer survivors to reclaim their bodies, boost their self-confidence, and create a positive memory of the experience. It is a reminder that they are still the same person they were before the diagnosis, and that their beauty and femininity are not defined by the physical changes that come with treatment. Breast cancer treatment can be a difficult and traumatic experience, but taking boudoir photos can be a powerful way for women to celebrate their strength and beauty.