Breast Self-Exam: How To

How do I do a breast cancer self-exam?

Performing a breast self-exam (BSE) can help you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, making it easier to detect any changes that may occur. Here’s how you can perform a breast self-exam:

1. Choose a time: The best time to perform a BSE is a few days after your menstrual period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. If you no longer have menstrual periods, choose a specific day each month to perform the exam.
2. Stand or sit: Stand or sit in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look at your breasts in the mirror, checking for any changes in size, shape, or contour. Also, check for any skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, or redness.
3. Raise your arms: Still facing the mirror, raise your arms above your head and look for the same changes in size, shape, or contour.
4. Inspect your nipples: Look at your nipples and check for any signs of discharge or inversion.
5. Lie down: Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Use the pads of your fingers on your left hand to feel for lumps in your right breast. Use small, circular motions, covering the entire breast area and armpit.
6. Switch sides: Repeat the same process for your left breast, using your right hand.
7. Check for discharge: Squeeze each nipple gently to check for any discharge.
8. Repeat standing: Finally, repeat steps 2 and 3 while standing or sitting to check for any changes.

It’s important to remember that most breast lumps are not cancerous, but if you notice any changes in your breasts or have any concerns, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Regular breast self-exams, along with clinical breast exams and mammograms as recommended by your healthcare provider, are important tools in detecting breast cancer early.

What do I do if I find a breast lump?

If you find a breast lump during a self-exam or notice any other changes in your breasts, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Here’s what you can do if you find a breast lump:

1. Don’t panic: While finding a lump in your breast can be alarming, most breast lumps are not cancerous. Many benign conditions can cause breast lumps, such as cysts or fibroadenomas.
2. Keep track of the lump: Note the size, shape, and location of the lump. Also, pay attention to any changes in the lump over time.
3. See your healthcare provider: Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to have the lump evaluated. Your healthcare provider will perform a clinical breast exam and may order imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to further evaluate the lump.
4. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations: Depending on the findings of the exam and imaging tests, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, to determine the nature of the lump.
5. Stay informed: Ask questions and stay informed about your condition. Understanding the nature of the lump and your treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your health.
6. Seek support: Dealing with a breast lump can be stressful. Seek support from friends, family, or a support group to help you cope with your feelings and emotions.

Remember, early detection is key in treating breast cancer successfully. If you have any concerns about a breast lump or changes in your breasts, don’t hesitate to see your healthcare provider for evaluation.