The Dr Louise Newson Podcast1 Juli 2025

14 - Breasts, bodies, and belonging: a conversation with Jean Hannah Edelstein

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.

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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: Dr Louise Newson

Instagram: The Dr LouiseNewson Podcast (@drlouisenewsonpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

LinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn

YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube

CONNECT WITH Jean Hannah Edelstein

Website: Jean Hannah Edelstein

Instagram: Jean Hannah Edelstein (jhedelstein) • Instagram photos and videos

Book: Breasts: A Relatively Brief Relationship – the funny, moving and universally relatable new memoir

LinkedIn: Jean Hannah Edelstein | LinkedIn

Related resources:

Breast cancer treatment and HRT

Dr Corinne Menn: I’m a doctor who’s had breast cancer: here’s what I want you to know

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