Personal breast exam
Personal breast exam
Performing a self-breast exam is a crucial step in early detection of breast cancer and can help you become familiar with the normal state of your breasts, making it easier to notice any changes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-breast exam:
1. Choose the Right Time
2. Visual Inspection
3. Examine While Lying Down
4. Examine While Standing or Sitting
5. Check the Nipples
6. Report Any Changes
1. Choose the Right Time
- When to Perform: Perform the exam once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends when your breasts are less likely to be tender. If you’re postmenopausal or don’t have regular periods, choose a consistent day each month.
2. Visual Inspection
- Stand in Front of a Mirror: With your shoulders straight and your arms at your sides, examine your breasts in front of a mirror.
- Observe Changes: Look for any visible changes in the size, shape, or contour of your breasts. Pay attention to any bulges, dimpling, or changes in skin texture. Also, check for any unusual swelling or asymmetry.
3. Examine While Lying Down
- Position: Lie down on your back with a pillow or towel under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head.
- Use Your Fingers: Use the pads of your three middle fingers (not the tips) to feel for lumps or changes. Press with varying pressure levels—light, medium, and firm—to check for different depths.
- Pattern: Use a circular motion, moving from the outer edge of the breast toward the nipple. Cover the entire breast area, including the underarm and the area between the breast and the collarbone.
4. Examine While Standing or Sitting
- Position: Stand or sit with your arms at your sides or raised above your head. You can also do this part in the shower where the soapy water can help your fingers glide more smoothly.
- Use Your Fingers: Again, use the pads of your three middle fingers to check for any changes in the breast tissue. Follow the same circular pattern as you did while lying down.
5. Check the Nipples
- Inspect: Gently squeeze each nipple to check for any discharge (fluid) or blood. Normal discharge is usually clear or milky, but any unusual color or consistency should be reported to your healthcare provider.
6. Report Any Changes
- What to Look For: Be aware of lumps, hardness, or changes in breast tissue. Also, note any persistent pain, changes in skin texture, or changes in the size or shape of your breasts.
- Seek Medical Advice: If you detect any changes or abnormalities, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
- Regularity: Make self-breast exams a regular part of your routine.
- Know Your Normal: Everyone’s breasts are unique. Knowing what’s normal for you will help you notice changes more easily.