What does it mean to be a woman? Many women who have recently undergone a mastectomy ask themselves this in hopes of finding an answer to the physical and emotional pain they are feeling. The idea of a woman is often closely knitted to the tangible. A woman has curves, breasts, and long soft hair. While this is just a shallow dip into the vastness of what is a "woman," it can send those who have lost those things into a world of depression. A woman who loses one of both of her breast is forced to deal with what she deems inferior. Am I still a woman? Will I ever love my body again? It's extremely overwhelming and it takes some time to come to terms with what your body has gone through. One thing that many woman yearn for after their surgery is to look in the mirror and not be ashamed. To see themselves as a whole. To feel like the woman they know they still are. Lingerie designers make it their business to know woman, and for that reason, there is a large line of medical bras made specifically for woman who may have just gone through the pains of a mastectomy. While it's only a superficial fix to a tremendously deep problem, the correct lingerie can help you feel comfortable with your body and begin healing.

Why do I need a Medical Bra?

Medical bra's are made specifically for woman who have gone through a serious surgery like a mastectomy. A mastectomy bra is made with "pockets," in each breast. These pockets are used to hold prosthesis. Mastectomy bra's offer you the security you need during the times you need it the most. They help you maintain symmetry, cover and heal surgical scars, and minimize back, neck and shoulder pain.

Buying a Medical Bra

Buying a medical bra can be a stressful event. However, you are a surviver and with your own self confidence and a little helpful advice you'll look great and feel even better. Consider the following tips when you decide to purchase a medical bra.

• Get Fitted:

Getting professionally fitted is the first step to finding a bra that fits you properly. Woman tend to go their entire lives wearing the wrong bra size, and now that you've undergone a mastectomy, it's even more important to find the bra that meets your needs. Many department stores, pharmacies, and even online retailers will offer a fitting. Today, woman can get fitted and then proceed home to enjoy privacy of shopping online. If this seems like something you would be more comfortable doing, get fitted by a professional and then look to reputable online retailer to make your purchase.

• Spice it Up a Bit:

Unfortunately, many woman see a mastectomy as an end to their womanhood, but that doesn't have to be the case. With the modern advancements in medical bra's you will be able to look and feel comfortable in your own body. Don't limit your bra's to the everyday white standards that flood your intimates drawer. Spice things up a bit and purchase bra's in different colors, styles, and fabrics. This will not only give you an option, but it will help remind you that you are still as beautiful as you were before.

• Buy More than One:

This is a point in your life when you need to take pride in the obstacles you've over come. Don't feel you need to hide your body under a layer of bulking sweaters and t-shirts. The right medical bra will offer you support while bringing back your symmetry. Be sure to have a variety of bra's so that you can wear a variety of shirts. Consider the style bras you had previous to surgery. Some were best worn with sweaters, others with scoop neck tops. Having a few bra's will help you look great in the clothes you loved before your surgery.