How To Give A Self-Breast Exam
Self-breast exams are necessary and should be done at least once per month. You only see your gynecologist once per year, so if you have a problem with your breasts, you should have it taken care of as soon as you notice something. If you aren't giving yourself self-breast exams and only have exams when you go to the gynecologist, you could miss something that could be life-threatening. Read on for tips on how to give yourself a self-breast exam.
Take A Look In The Mirror
Take a good look in the mirror at yourself and inspect your breasts. Look at the symmetry of your breasts, look for dimpling, secretions, bruising, puckering of the skin surrounding the nipple, or large veins in the breast. If you spot any of these issues, make an appointment with your gynecologist for a further examination.
Examine Further By Laying Down Or Standing
Either standing up or laying down, place one hand behind your head and use the other hand to examine your opposite breast. Using three fingers beginning at the armpit, use a small circular motion pressing firmly but not too firm, working from the armpit in towards the breast and around the nipple. Cover the entire breast when examining it, working in a grid pattern, so you don't miss any part of the breast.
Repeat on the other side, moving your other hand behind your head and examining the opposite breast with the opposite hand. You are looking for any unusual lumps or masses within the breast. If you feel anything unusual, report it to your gynecologist right away.
Check For Discharge
You should also squeeze the nipple with two fingers and check for any discharge. If you spot discharge, you should report it to your gynecologist.
Go To The Gynecologist
A gynecologic exam should be done every year, and your gynecologist should examine your breasts during the exam. If you have any issues or have spotted any changes at all, be sure to tell your gynecologist.
If you are older than 40, you should be getting regular yearly mammograms. If you have a history of breast cancer, or have had other types of cancer, a mammogram may be required sooner than the age of 40. Discuss mammograms with your gynecologist and discuss your risk factors as well.
Self-breast exams should be done at least once per month. Pay attention to your breasts and take note of any changes. If you spot any changes in your breasts, talk to your gynecologist right away.