.Breast exams can be an important tool for early detection of breast cancer
Breast self-examinations (BSE) were once considered to be an essential tool for the early detection of breast cancer. Today, according to the American Cancer Society, it is acceptable for women to choose not to do a breast self-exam, or to choose to only do BSE occasionally. However the American Cancer Society still recommends women be aware of how their breasts look and feel at different times during their menstrual cycle and different stages of life. This process is called breast self-awareness. For women who choose breast self examination there are five steps to follow.
Preparation
According to the Mayo Clinic, the best time to do a self-exam is a few days after the end of your menstrual period. Women who are pregnant or in menopause should choose a particular day of the month to do their BSE. Although it is not necessary to do an exam every month, it is advisable to maintain a record of your observations in a notebook.
Observation
The first three steps of a self-exam involve observation. For Step One, stand bare-chested in front of a mirror. Keep your shoulders straight and put your hands on your hips. Note the size, shape and appearance of your breasts. If you observe changes in the way your breasts look, including any puckering, swelling, rash or redness, inversion of the nipples or any other distortion, contact your physician. In Step Two, raise your arms over your head and and look for the same anomalies. Step Three involves examining your nipples for any fluid that may secrete from one or both nipples. If you observe fluid, whether it is clear, milky, yellow or bloody, contact your physician.
Physical
The last two steps involve examining your breasts with your fingers to check for any unusual lumps or anomalies under the breast skin. Lay flat on your back for Step Four. Raise one arm above your head and examine the corresponding breast with the opposite hand, i.e., use your right hand to examine your left breast. Use the fingertips and press down on the breast and make small circular motions, then move on to the next area of the breast. Begin at the top and work your way down. Cover the entire breast. Change sides and repeat the procedure. Step Five repeats the procedure performed in Step Four, only this time you will be standing up. If you find any changes from your previous self-exam, contact your physician.
Tags: contact your, contact your physician, your breasts, your physician, American Cancer, American Cancer Society, breast cancer
