Background
Following treatment for gynecological cancer, many women describe a deep sense of internal emptiness. This is not the result of visible scars, but rather the symbolic loss of reproductive organs and the disconnection from a body that no longer feels familiar. Some express the feeling that their body no longer belongs to them. While psychosocial support often focuses on distress, fewer programs address the embodied and identity based impact of cancer treatment (Gamel et al., 2011; Brüggemann et al., 2021). These stories, shared in support settings and informal interviews, inspired the Mallowflower Foundation to develop a group intervention to support women in rebuilding a relationship with their changed bodies.
Methods
A four session group program was designed in the Low Intensity Psychological Interventions (LIPI) framework for women who had completed active treatment for gynecological cancer in Hungary (n=12). Sessions combine symbolic expression, cognitive strategies, and guided self compassion. Core activities include body sculpture, cognitive reframing, values clarification and letter writing. Each session is concluded with a brief mindfulness based self-compassion practice. Outcomes are measured using the Hungarian version of the Body Image Scale (Czeglédi et al., 2021) and three visual analogue items assessing bodily connection, identity and acceptance.
Impact on practice
This brief intervention offers a structured, thematically focused model that addresses body image and identity concerns frequently reported by gynecological cancer survivors. Its experiential format and symbolic methods may complement existing survivorship care by supporting reflection, meaning making, and emotional integration. Preliminary findings show improved body image, greater self acceptance, and enhanced connection to the body.
Discussion
This pilot highlights the relevance of embodiment and body image as psychological domains in post treatment recovery. For women affected by internal organ loss, supporting reconnection with the body may facilitate identity continuity, emotional adjustment and quality of life.