If you choose to do breast
self-exams, your doctor can help show you the best technique. Many women find
it convenient to do the exam while bathing or showering. The best time to do
the exam is 3 to 5 days after the start of the menstrual period, since the breasts are not as
tender or lumpy at this time of the cycle. Women who no longer have menstrual
periods should do the exam about the same time each month. Continue...
Part of a breast self-exam involves
examination of the appearance of the breasts in a mirror. For this step, it is
best to stand in front of a mirror and examine your breasts in different
positions: with your arms relaxed by your side, with your hands pressed down on
your hips, leaning forward with chest muscles tightened, and with hands behind
the head and chest muscles tightened. Turning from side to side may be helpful
to view all angles. Look for any changes like sores on the skin, dimpling or
puckering of the skin, or changes in skin color. Look for discharge or changes
in the skin of the nipple areas, as well. Don't forget to examine
the skin underneath the breasts.
Next, use the flat part of the
fingers to feel your breasts, following an up and down or circular motion until
you have examined all breast tissue from collarbone to the lower border of the
breasts. Examine the armpit areas too since these may contain breast tissue.
Look for lumps or irregularities in density or any changes since your last
exam. Feel beneath the nipple for any changes. It's best to do this both
standing (with your hand on your hip; use the opposite hand to do the exam) and
while lying down.
What
if I find a lump or abnormality on my breast self-exam?
See your
doctor if you find any abnormality or unexplained change in your breasts. Most
breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous), but it is important to have your
doctor evaluate any changes you observe during the breast self-exam.
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