The shock you feel when you notice a ‘lump’ in your breast can be massive. At this point, even a simple stress-induced headache can feel like a cancer symptom. One sure way to notice abnormalities in your breast and identify lumps is to conduct breast self-examinations regularly.
A breast self-examination procedure is an inspection of the breast using the eyes and hands to check for changes in the nature of the breast tissue. A breast exam is usually done to detect the presence of lumps that might lead to breast cancer. It is important to know that a breast exam can be performed at home without the help of a doctor.
Simple Steps for a breast self-exam
Conducting a breast exam is important to monitor the state of a woman’s breasts. Here are five simple steps to guide you on how to do a breast self-examination:
Step 1:
Lie on your right side if you intend to examine your left breast, and place your left hand behind your head.
Step 2:
Use the middle fingers of your right hand to press down on the breast firmly but gently, examining the breast with small, circular motions. Also, check for discharge from the nipple by gently squeezing it
Step 3:
Stand in front of a mirror and observe your breasts for any changes in the texture, like dimpling or puckering. These could be early signs of breast cancer.
Step 4:
Observe the shape of the breast and look out for any change in the position of the nipple.
Step 5:
Still in front of the mirror, repeat steps 3 and 4, but with your hand behind your head
Why should you carry out a breast self-examination?
A regular, simple breast exam at home can help increase your awareness of your body, making it easier to detect new changes. Although most of the changes detected in a breast self-exam are harmless (benign lumps, for example), some changes can signify something more serious like breast cancer.
Schedule an appointment with a doctor if, during a breast exam, you notice unusual features like:
- A hard lump in your breast or around your armpit
- Changes in the general look, shape or texture of your breasts
- Inversion of the nipples or discharge from the nipples
- Pain in breast, itching, swelling or soreness
- Formation of dimples, bulges or puckers on the surface of your breast.
These features can be signs of breast cancer, so it is essential to regularly carry out a breast self-examination procedure. If there is any pain or you notice unusual features, do not panic. A doctor is in the best position to assess your situation.
You might be required to undergo various tests and procedures, including ultrasound, clinical breast examination and a mammogram.