International Breast Cancer Awareness Month: what you should know, how to take care of yourself, and which bra to wear after mastectomy

by Maria Isabel Saldarriaga

Every October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month all over the world, and October 19th is International Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to talk about something that affects all of us, either directly or indirectly. It’s the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer among women worldwide, and the best outcomes happen with early detection.

In this guide, we will discuss what breast cancer is, how to stay aware of the signs your body gives you, what changes after surgery, and how to choose the best bra for recovery. Although this blog post will be informative, it’s not intended to be a substitute for talking to your doctor, who is in the best position to provide guidance for your specific situation.

What is breast cancer and why is early detection important?

Breast cancer happens when some cells in breast tissue begin to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. There are several different types of breast cancer and each one has its own treatment. Although it’s much more common in women, men can also get breast cancer.

The reason why there is such an emphasis on early detection is practical: early breast cancer diagnosis means more treatment options and a better prognosis. According to the Spanish Association Against Cancer, 35,312 cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in 2023 in Spain and the average five-year survival rate stands at 85.5%. Research, prevention, and early detection have made it possible to increase that survival rate.

To delve deeper, we recommend that you check out Cancer Research UK (CRUK), a free and frequently-updated resource.

How to detect breast cancer: self-exam and check-ups

The first step is to familiarize yourself with how your chest currently looks. Don’t be anxious! Just observe how it looks and feels now so that you’ll notice any changes that may happen. Doing your self-exam isn’t a substitute for check-ups and screenings, but it will help you know when it’s time to get checked out by a professional.

Symptoms of breast cancer you’ll want to be aware of

According to CRUK, these are some of the changes you should consult a doctor about:

  • A palpable nodule or lump in the breast or armpit.

  • Changes in the size of one of the breasts or irregularities in its shape.

  • Skin changes: ulcers, color changes, or an "orange-peel" appearance.

  • Changes in the nipple: retraction (inward pulling) or a yellowish or bloody discharge.

  • Breast tenderness or pain to the touch.

It’s also common for there to be no symptoms during the initial phases of the condition. Also, some of these symptoms can have benign causes. That’s why, if you notice anything, you should always consult your doctor so that they can conduct the necessary testing.

Preventing breast cancer: It’s in your hands

There is no guaranteed way to 100% prevent breast cancer, but according to CRUK, there are certain steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing it, including maintaining a healthy weight, living an active lifestyle, and reducing your alcohol consumption. And, above all, do all the screenings and check-ups your doctor recommends.

Currently, the NHS Breast Screening Programme offers routine mammograms to eligible individuals from the ages of 50 to 71 years old. Your GP will typically first bring it up to you between the ages of 50 and 53 years old, but it never hurts to ask at any age.

All about breast cancer surgery (and what changes afterwards)

Treatment for breast cancer may include various methods, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and even medications. It may also include surgery. There are conservative methods (where they remove just the tumor) or you may have to undergo a mastectomy (the whole breast is removed). Every case is different and so is every recovery process.

After the operation, your body will need to be handled with care. The area will be tender and inflamed. In the first days after surgery, you may have drains and bandages to deal with. The skin around the stitches, the scars, and the underarms will need to be handled gently. Recovery can also be a very emotional process, which we won’t minimize: it’s normal to feel different when looking in the mirror and there’s no right or wrong way to process the difficult feelings you may have.

But did you know? Your underwear can be a tool for dealing with these changes, providing comfort and support. You won’t want to wear a bra with underwire, hard seams, or uncomfortable closures because they can rub against your healing wounds and make your day worse. That’s why it’s important to choose the right bra after mastectomy or other surgeries. Always follow your doctor’s instructions with regards to what to wear and when.

The best bras for mastectomy, post-surgical wear, and with a prosthesis

There isn’t one single bra that will work for every step of the process. What you’ll need will vary moment by moment. Your surgeon or health team will let you know which type of bra is best for each stage.

Immediately after surgery: post-surgical bra

Typically, during the first weeks after surgery, the priority will be to protect your incisions with soft support. A post-surgical bra is typically one that has:

  • A front closure, so that you can put it on without lifting your arms.

  • Wireless, made of soft and stretchy fabric, with minimal seams.

  • Wide, adjustable straps that won’t dig in.

  • A fit that supports without too much compression. Ask your doctor what level of compression is appropriate for your situation.

Bras to wear after mastectomy, during the recovery phase

Cuando tu médico lo autorice, llega el momento de un sujetador de mastectomía, pensado para el uso diario tras la cirugía. Su objetivo es darte soporte y comodidad, y en muchos casos permite incorporar una prótesis externa. 

If you have to have a mastectomy, your doctor will probably recommend that you switch to bras specifically designed for post-mastectomy wear. When it’s time to pick a mastectomy bra, choose one that will be comfortable and supportive for daily wear. You may even want to pick one that has pocketed cups so that you can wear prostheses, if you have them.

Whether you pick a pocketed bra or not, always choose one with a smooth interior that won’t rub against your healing skin.

If you’ve had a breast reconstruction or are wearing prostheses


If you undergo a breast reconstruction, the right bra to wear afterwards will depend on the type of intervention and the phase of recovery you’re in. Always ask your surgeon when you can wear a wireless bra and what level of fit and compression will be best for your situation.

Our general advice: Always choose breathable fabric. Try on each piece with intention and don’t rush. And it’s normal for bra size to change during the recovery process!

How Leonisa can help you

At Leonisa, we’re always designing pieces that combine comfort and support. We know that in these moments, you need underwear that will accompany you instead of hindering your progress. That’s why we created two collections just for these moments.

  • Post-surgical bras: Perfect to wear in the first days and weeks after the operation.

  • Mastectomy bras: For daily wear during recovery and beyond.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’d like to encourage you to book an appointment for a check-up if one is due, talk about breast cancer with the women in your life, and remember that getting and staying informed in time is a form of self-care.

 

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