Breast self-examinations are crucial for spotting breast cancer early. This simple method helps you get to know your breasts’ usual look and feel, making it easier to catch any unusual changes.
The Purpose of Self-Examinations
Regularly checking your breasts helps you understand their normal state and quickly see any changes. The most common sign of a possible tumor is a lump that’s usually not painful but can be felt or seen. Watch for changes in your nipples, like retraction, increased protrusion, or fluid secretion. Also, take note of skin changes, especially if they affect only one breast. Regular self-exams mean you can keep track of any new hard spots that need attention.
Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most frequent type of cancer in women. It happens when some breast cells grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor in the mammary gland. Tumors can be benign, like fibroadenomas or cysts, or malignant, which are more dangerous because they can spread to nearby tissues or other body parts. Early detection is facilitated by mammography and regular check-ups tailored to your age and history. Treatments, which depend on the cancer鈥檚 stage and type, include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and biological treatments.
When to Perform Self-Examinations
You should start doing breast self-exams monthly from age 20, ideally a week after your menstrual cycle ends when hormonal changes are minimal. If you’re pregnant or in menopause, the timing is less important, but any signs like skin changes, nipple discharge, or shape changes should prompt a doctor’s visit.
How to Conduct a Self-Examination
There are two parts to a self-exam: looking and feeling.
Observation: Check for irregularities in shape, color changes, cracked nipples, skin ulcerations, or dimples. Do this in front of a mirror with relaxed shoulders and arms at your sides. Repeat with arms raised and again with hands on your forehead, tensing your chest muscles.
Palpation: Feel your breast by moving the inner parts of your three joined fingertips in small circles, covering each part of the breast. Apply gradually more pressure to find any lumps or hard areas.
What to Look Out For
During your self-exam, watch for changes in breast size or shape, thickening or lumps in the breast or armpit, nipple discharge, skin wrinkles, bumps, or unusual sensations. Look for nodules, nipple appearance changes, skin inflammations, rashes, and unexplained pain in the breast or armpit.
Remember, self-examinations complement but don’t replace professional exams or imaging tests like mammograms and ultrasounds. Regular, proper self-exams can help detect cancer early, lowering the risk of late-stage diagnosis. If you spot any concerning signs, see a healthcare professional right away.
