A self-breast examination is a step-by-step method that women can use to examine their breasts. This can help detect breast cancer early, which increases the rate of success of treatment and survival rate.
5 Steps to a Self-Breast Examination include:
STEP 1: Stand in front of the mirror with your top off
Begin by looking at your breast in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.
If you observe any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor’s attention:
- Look for any unusual changes in the size, shape or color of your breasts.
- Any signs of redness, soreness, rash or swelling.
- A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of sticking out).
STEP 2: Raise Your Arms
Raise your arms up and look for the same changes as above-mentioned.
STEP 3: Check for Fluid
While performing steps 1 & 2, look for any discharge or secretions from the nipples. Common fluid discharge to look for are yellow, milky, or watery fluid – and sometimes blood.
STEP 4: Lay Down
Comfortably lie down and feel each breast by applying firm pressure with your three centre fingers. Typically, it’s best to start at the nipple and then begin moving in larger circles until you’ve covered the entire breast.
- Place the pillow under your shoulder of your right hand and lie facing the roof
- Examine your breast and armpit with left hand
- Repeat the same on the opposite breast with other hand and look for visible changes
STEP 5: Stand Up
Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Repeat the same three-finger pressing as mentioned above and examine your breasts starting from your nipple area to entirely covering the breasts. Make use of opposite hand for examining opposite breasts – right hand for left breast and vice versa.
References:
- Breast Self-Exams: 5 Quick Steps. Beebe Healthcare. https://www.beebehealthcare.org/health-hub/breast-self-exams-5-quick-steps
- Breast Self-Exam (BSE). Breastcancer.org. https://www.breastcancer.org/screening-testing/breast-self-exam-bse