As a woman, I believe that being proactive about my health is one of the most important things I can do. When it comes to breast health, being aware of what is normal for my body is a key first step in early detection. While breast cancer can be a frightening topic, it’s important to remember that when it’s found early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher.
Table of Contents
This guide will walk you through the key components of breast health awareness, including how to perform a breast self-exam, what changes to look for, and the general guidelines for clinical exams and mammograms.
щука How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
A breast self-exam (BSE) is something I do regularly to familiarize myself with the normal look and feel of my breasts. It’s best to perform the exam at the same time each month, about a week after your period starts, when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen. The goal is to notice any changes from one month to the next.
There are two main parts to the exam:
- Looking in the Mirror: I stand in front of a mirror with my arms at my sides, and then with my arms raised, to visually inspect my breasts for any changes in size, shape, or color, or any signs of dimpling or puckering.
- Feeling for Changes: Lying down, I use the pads of my three middle fingers to feel my entire breast and armpit area in a circular or up-and-down pattern. I use varying levels of pressure to feel the tissue at different depths. I’m feeling for any lumps, knots, or thickenings that feel different from the surrounding tissue.
⚠️ What Changes to Look For
It’s important to remember that most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, I know that it’s crucial to have any new or unusual changes checked by a doctor. The changes to watch for include:
- A new lump, knot, or thickening in the breast or underarm area.
- A change in the size or shape of the breast.
- Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin.
- A nipple that has turned inward instead of sticking out.
- Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling of the breast or nipple.
- Any unusual nipple discharge (other than breast milk).
🩺 Clinical Exams and Mammograms
In addition to my monthly self-exams, regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are a vital part of my breast health routine. A clinical breast exam (CBE) is a physical examination of the breasts performed by a trained doctor or nurse.
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast and is the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Health guidelines on when to start mammograms and how often to get them can vary, so it’s important to discuss your personal risk factors and the best screening schedule for you with your doctor.
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