Breast cancer, surgery and identity: Jean Hannah Edelstein’s story

In this episode, Dr Louise Newson speaks with author Jean Hannah Edelstein about her deeply personal new book, Breasts: A Relatively Short Relationship, and the complex journey she’s had with her own body. Jean shares the experience of choosing to undergo a double mastectomy at 41, after being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, and highlights the emotional and practical importance of finding the right doctors and surgeons during such a life-altering process. Jean reflects on growing up in the hyper-sexualised 1990s, a world where pop stars like Britney Spears were both idolised and seen as cautionary tales, and Victoria’s Secret sold not just lingerie, but a narrow vision of womanhood, aimed at teenage girls. By her early twenties, Jean had size 30G/F breasts, which brought unwanted attention, but also moments of connection, especially with other women. Jean also talks candidly about choosing to have a mastectomy, then later, a hysterectomy and oophorectomy. She opens up about her diagnosis of Lynch syndrome, and about the frustrations of navigating a medical system that often withholds information, especially when it comes to HRT and cancer risk, leaving too many patients to advocate for themselves in the dark. We hope you love the new series! Share your thoughts with us on the feedback form here and if you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform. Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk with suggestions for new guests! Disclaimer The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group. LET'S CONNECT Website 👉 https://www.drlouisenewson.co.uk/ Instagram 👉 https://www.instagram.com/drlouisenewsonpodcast/ LinkedIn 👉 / https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlouisenewson/?originalSubdomain=uk Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/7dCctfyI9bODGDaFnjfKhg LEARN MORE Sign up to my Menopause Masterclass 👉 https://newson-health.teachable.com Sign up for my Confidence in Menopause Course 👉 https://newson-health.teachable.com/p/confidence-in-the-menopause