Breast Self-Examination

Breast cancer is the most common issue in women now a days but if it is diagnosed or treated at an early stage the chances of survival are more than 90%. That is why it is very important for you to learn how to examine your breasts properly. Do your Breast self-examination about a week after the start of your menstrual period, when breasts are not tender or swollen. If you are not always regular or after menopause, choose a day that is easy to remember such as the first day of the month and do it on the same day every month.

How to do breast self-examination:

IN THE SHOWER:

• Put your hand behind your neck, fingers flat move over every part of each breast gently.
• Use your left hand to examine right breast and right hand for left breast.
• Check for any hard not, lump or thickening.
• Carefully observes any changes in your breasts.

BEFORE A MIRROR:

• Stand in front of the mirror with both arms raised and look closely at both of your breasts.
• Look for changes in size, color or texture (these may be the signs of inflammatory breast cancer).
• Look for any changes in contour of each breast, a dimpling of skin, any changes in the nipple or a swelling.
• Then rest palm on hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. If a dimple becomes apparent or your left and right breast will not exactly match consult physician.

LAYING DOWN:

• Place pillow under left shoulder and left arm behind your head. With fingers of right hand flat, press left breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast.
• Pay attention to any changes like lumps, bumpy texture or tenderness.