Breast Self-Exams
by Kate Kelley
Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women with the best treatment being early detection. Mammograms are the best way for early detection of breast cancer. But most experts agree that every woman should learn to do perform self-exams could find a tumor early, when it’s still small.
BSE Method
Here is how to perform a breast self-exam.
1. Lay down and place a pillow under your right shoulder. Next, place your right arm under your head.
2. Using your three middle fingers of your left hand, massage your right breast with the pads of your fingers. Check for any lumps or abnormalities. You can move in a circular motion, or up and down. Make sure you use the same motion every month.
3. Continue the motion, extending to the outside of the breast to your underarm.
4. Repeat on left side.
5. Next, repeat exam standing up, with one arm behind your shoulder as you examine each breast. Standing or sitting up allows you to feel the outside of the breast more accurately.
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6. For added precaution, stand in front of a mirror and squeeze each nipple. Look for any discharge.
7. Take note of any dimpling, redness or swelling.
Visual Inspection
• Stand in front of a mirror with your upper body unclothed and pressing both hands behind your head.
• Look for changes in the shape and size of your breasts.
• Check for dimples of the skin or "pulling in" of the nipples.
• Check for scaling or a rash on your beasts and nipples.
• Next, place your hands on your hips and press firmly inward, tightening your chest muscles, while looking at your breasts for any change in their usual appearance. Perform leaning slightly forward and again while standing upright.
When to see a doctor
You should see your doctor if:
• You detect a lump or a change in your breast
• Change in color or texture or a dimpling of the skin
• A discharge
• A ‘pulling-in’ of the nipple
Most lumps found by doing a BSE are benign (non-cancerous), about 80% of them. But don’t wait if you find out. Please see your doctor immediately. Remember: early detection is the key.
For more information on breast cancer, please visit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
