How to Do a Breast Self-Exam: Easy Steps for Early Cancer Detection
Doing a breast self-exam (BSE) regularly is a powerful tool for early detection of breast cancer and can significantly improve outcomes. While no single screening method can catch all cancers in their early stages, many suggest that combining breast self-exams with other screening methods can improve the likelihood of early detection. Collaborating insights from trusted sources, including the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Breastcancer.org, the following is a comprehensive guide to help us perform a thorough breast self-exam.
What Is a Breast Self-Exam & Why It Matters
A breast self-exam utilizes visual and physical examinations of the breasts to identify signs or symptoms of breast cancer. The primary objective of this practice is to foster self-awareness, enabling individuals to recognize any deviations from their breasts' normal appearance and texture. It's important to understand that while BSE is valuable, it should complement regular mammograms and clinical breast exams, and not replace them.
How Often Should We Perform a Breast Self-Exam?
Adult women of all ages are encouraged to conduct BSE at least once a month. The timing may vary depending on our menstrual cycle. For menstruating individuals, it's advisable to perform the exam a few days after the period ends. Post-menopausal individuals should stick to a specific date each month, such as the 1st or 15th. Initiatives like Feel It on the First champion the importance of monthly self-exams, empowering us to check ourselves on the first day of every month. Regularity is key in establishing a routine that enhances early detection.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
Step 1: Examine Breasts in a Mirror
Begin the examination by looking at our breasts in the mirror with our shoulders straight and our arms on our hips. Scan each breast for:
- Breasts that are their usual size, shape and color
- Evenly shaped breasts without visible distortion or swelling
- Any changes such as dimpling, puckering or bulging of the skin
- Nipple changes in position or inversion
- Redness, soreness, rash or swelling
Step 2: Raise Arms & Examine Breasts
Raise our arms and continue observing for the same changes in appearance.
Step 3: Look for Signs of Breast Fluid
While at the mirror, inspect for any signs of fluid discharge from one or both nipples. This could be watery, milky, yellow fluid or blood.
Step 4: Feel for Breast Lumps While Lying Down
Lie down and use our right hand to feel our left breast, and vice versa. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few finger pads of our hand, keeping them flat and together. Cover the entire breast in circular motions, ensuring to examine from top to bottom, side to side and from the collarbone to the abdomen. Follow a pattern to cover the entire breast thoroughly, varying pressure from light to firm as we move through different tissue layers.
Step 5: Feel Your Breasts for Lumps While Standing or Sitting
Conduct the same examination while standing or sitting. Many find it easier to feel their breasts when the skin is wet and slippery, making the shower an ideal setting for this step. Utilize the same hand movements described earlier, ensuring to cover the entire breast surface.
Take Action
Regular breast self-examination is a proactive step towards maintaining breast health. By familiarizing ourselves with our breasts' normal appearance and texture, we become better equipped to detect any changes promptly. Remember, early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer.
By practicing regular breast self-exams, we stay connected to our bodies and support early detection. Let’s make breast health a habit — for ourselves and for those we love.
