Hi Boneyjoney, 

It's a difficult choice to have to make when it comes to breast reconstruction and I hope that you will hear from the experiences of other members who have been in your position before. It might be useful for you to read our section on breast reconstruction and on the different types of breast reconstruction including the DIEP or breast reconstruction using implants. Hopefully some of our members who have had these types of reconstruction before will come and share their experiences and whether they experienced any issues. Do talk to your medical team or specialist too about the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision. Our cancer nurses are also available on this free number 0808 800 4040 if you would like to talk through your options with them - their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

I am so sorry that you have had to suffer from all these side effects - poor you these must have affected you quite a lot and I can imagine that the effect this has had on your libido has been the hardest thing and it must have been upsetting and frustrating for you on so many levels. I think you should perhaps talk to your GP  about this as they may well have some good suggestions for you on the sorts of things you could try to improve things. Your doctor will be used to dealing with situations like this so don't feel shy about bringing it up as this is a problem that happens to a lot of ladies and which they will have addressed before. Members of our community may also have experienced something like this as a result of treatment side effects and I hope that they will be along shortly and share tips with you based on their personal experiences and on what worked for them. 

Best wishes, 

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator