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What is Breast Self–Examination?
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Breast self-examination (BSE) involves examination of your breasts to help
detect breast abnormalities,
such as a lump or change in appearance, that may
indicate possible breast cancer or other breast conditions that may
require
medical attention, such as mastitis. |
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How to do the self examination |
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Breast self-examination involves examination of your breasts for lumps or
changes while standing and lying in different positions and while
looking at
your breasts in a mirror to note any changes in their appearance. |
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- Breast self-examination involves examination of your breasts for lumps or
changes while standing and lying in different positions
and while looking at your breasts in a mirror to note any changes in their
appearance.One breast is usually slightly larger than the other.
You may find a ridge of firm tissue in the lower curve of the breast below the
nipple. This is normal.
- Most breast tissue has some lumps or thick tissue. When in doubt about a
particular lump, check your other breast. If you find the
same kind of lump in the same area on the other breast, both breasts are
probably normal.
- It is normal for your breasts to change throughout your menstrual cycle, and you
may notice increased swelling and tenderness
before your period starts.
- Pay attention to any lump that feels much harder than the rest of your breast.
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Most breast abnormalities or changes are not necessarily cancer, but should be
evaluated by a health professional.
These may include: |
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- Any new lump. It may or may not be painful to the touch.
- Unusually hard areas.
- Sticky or bloody discharge from your nipples.
- A nipple which previously pointed outwards now points inwards (inverted).
- Any changes in the skin of your breasts or nipples, such as puckering or
dimpling.
- An unusual increase in the size of one breast.
- One breast unusually lower than the other.
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Don't panic if you think you feel a lump. Most women have some lumps or lumpy
areas in their breasts all the time.
Eight out of ten breast lumps
that are
removed are benign, non-cancerous. |
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When should I do the self examination? |
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The best time to examine your breasts is one week after your menstrual period
begins, when your breast
tissue is least likely to be swollen
or tender. |
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- If you’re menstrual cycle is irregular, or if you have stopped menstruating due
to menopause or the
removal of your uterus (hysterectomy),
do your examination on a day of the month that is easy to remember.
- Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should continue to examine their
breasts every month.
Breast-feeding mothers can examine
their breasts after breastfeeding or after using a breast pump so that the
breasts contain as little milk as possible,
making the examination easier and more comfortable.
- Breast implants do not decrease a woman's risk for breast cancer and regular BSE
is recommended.
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Breast self-exam should be part of your monthly health care routine, and you
should visit your doctor if you observe any breast changes. |
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If you are over 40 or at a high risk for the disease, you should also have an
annual mammogram and physical exam by a doctor. |
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The earlier breast cancer is found and diagnosed, the better your chances of
being cured. |
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