Younger Women's Forums

Events providing support and information for women aged up to 45 who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the last three years. Sessions relate specifically to the needs of younger women, recognising issues that are important to you. These events may be one or two days.

 

What do we cover?

Each Younger Women’s Forum includes a selection of different sessions to choose from. These may differ at each forum, but tend to cover the following:

Breast surgery and reconstruction

An overview of breast reconstruction techniques, nipple reconstruction, breast reduction and procedures, possible complications and new developments in surgical techniques.

Menopausal symptoms

We explain the menopause and how treatments for breast cancer can bring on a premature menopause. We also look at the impact of menopausal symptoms on daily life, the pros and cons of interventions which may help and talk about practical tips to help alleviate symptoms.

Relationships and communication

Facilitated by an experienced therapist, this session explores how your feelings about others and your relationships with them may have changed, what you most want to communicate and to who, and some ideas that may help.

Laughter yoga

Laughter can help us to be healthier, happier and less stressed. In this session we play some gentle games based on laughter, and learn why laughter is important and how we can use it to help us.

Relaxation

Controlled breathing and the ability to relax are essential aspects of managing stress. This session includes a guided relaxation to introduce you to simple breathing and muscle relaxation techniques.

Intimacy and sexuality

A chance to talk about the impact of your breast cancer diagnosis and its treatment on current and potential intimate and sexual relationships. It may include suggestions on how to alleviate some of the side effects of treatment and loss of libido.

Lymphoedema

Information about what lymphoedema is, its symptoms and how it is managed and approaches to reducing risk including practical tips for reducing risk in daily life.

Fertility after treatment

Information about the potential impact that treatment may have on fertility, temporary and permanent amenorrhoea (absence of periods), pregnancy after diagnosis, contraception and current clinical trials.

How do I book?

Younger Women’s Forums are for women aged between 20-45 who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the past three years. To see if this course is right for you, please contact us on 0845 077 1893 or click on the event listings above.

'I was slightly apprehensive going along to one of Breast Cancer Care’s Younger Women’s forums as I didn’t know what to expect but I was so glad that I made the effort to go. I thought I’d made all my decisions regarding reconstruction but the Consultant Plastic Surgeon who was a guest speaker gave me more options to think about. The forum was fun, very informative and I made some new and lasting friendships too. For any Younger Woman living with breast cancer, I’d highly recommend attending, even if it’s only to meet others who will ‘understand’ what you’re going through.' Cheryl, 39, Liverpool

 

‘I arrive full of nerves at Breast Cancer Care's central office near Southwark. I needn't have worried – as soon as I join a table of women chatting, I'm welcomed into the fold…’
Kirsty Ridge, 37

 Kirsty, from Leicester, attended a two-day Younger Woman’s Forum in October and kept a diary of the event.