Woman’s fight for NHS breast reduction after menopause

Howard says her breasts are now so large, she has to use medicated talc under them to prevent rashes, also washing them “two or three times a day” because they smell.

Like many others, Howard, who works as a horticulturist, says because of her breasts she also finds exercise painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult to stay active.

When she is out and about in public, she says she is regularly harassed because of them.

“I get fat-shamed in the street, people shout stupid jokes, lewd comments about them,” she describes.

Finding the pain and discomfort too much, Howard says she visited her GP to ask about breast reduction surgery, but was told there was “no chance” she would qualify.

She is now considering private breast reduction surgery, but says the estimated £6,000 – £9,000 cost is daunting.

She is not alone.