Breast health is an integral component of overall health, and it begins with being proactive and well-educated. One of the most effective ways of identifying any abnormalities in early stages is through self-examinations. By familiarizing yourself with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts, you would be able to identify any changes and seek medical help immediately.
Why Self-Examinations Are Important?
Breast self-exams are simple and inexpensive ways to detect potential issues early. They are not necessarily a replacement for a professional exam, but they can be an extremely helpful early detection tool. Early detection of abnormalities can make it possible for medical intervention to be sooner, and therefore the results improved.
When to Perform a Self-Examination?
Do a breast self-examination once a month. For menstruators, the best time is a few days after your period has stopped, when your breasts will be least swollen and tender. If you don’t have periods anymore, pick a regular day each month to take your exam.
Steps to Take a Thorough Self-Examination
1. Visual Inspection
Start standing in front of a mirror with your arms resting on your hips and shoulders positioned just above shoulder width. Look for any detectable change in the shape, size, and look of breasts. Look for puckering, dimpling, or change in skin texture. See if there is swelling, rash, or redness.
Then raise your arms above your head and check for the same changes. Standing posture can at times reveal abnormality which is not apparent with your arms at your sides.
2. Inspecting by Hand while Standing
Utilizing the pads of your three middle fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area while standing. It might be helpful to do this activity during the shower because skin is slippery and easier to check. Use a circular motion, starting from the outside of the breast towards the middle, touching all areas of the breast. Use light pressure for the skin and tissue just underneath, medium pressure for the tissue at the middle area of your breasts, and firm pressure for the deep tissue at the back.
3. Examination While Lying Down
Lie on your side with a pillow under your right shoulder and place your right arm behind your head. With your left hand, circle the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently in small circles, covering the entire breast and underarm area. Use the same varied pressure method described above. Repeat on your left breast.
4. Test for Nipple Discharge
Gently squeeze on your nipples to check for any discharge. If you do have fluid of any colour i.e., milky, yellow or bloody, it is extremely important that you visit a health care worker.
What to Do If You Find a Lump?
Discovering a lump is frightening, but one must stay calm. Not all lumps are cancerous. Most of them are benign and result from hormonal fluctuations, cysts, or other non-malignant causes. Nevertheless, it is necessary to book an appointment with your physician.
Regular Check-Ups and Professional Screenings
While self-exams are a useful tool, they are not intended to replace regular check-ups and professional screening. Mammography and medical breast examination by professionals are a necessary part of breast care.
Conclusion
Being responsible for your breast health with monthly self-examination is a proactive move towards early detection and worry-free living. Dr. Avhad Hospital encourages everyone to make these examinations part of their monthly regimen and consult a doctor if anything is detected early. Your health is your choice, and early detection can make all the difference.
