How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
Women older than 20 years should perform monthly breast
self-examinations (BSE). If you still have menstrual periods, you should
perform the examination a few days after your period has ended. During this
time, your breasts are not tender. If you are not menstruating (such as in
menopause), BSE should be performed on the same day each month.
Use the following techniques to perform a BSE. Choose the
method that is best for you.
Facing a mirror
Stand before a mirror and compare both breasts for
differences in size, nipple inversion (turning in), bulging, or dimpling. Note
any skin or nipple changes, such as a hard knot or nipple discharge.
# Inspect your breasts in the following 4 steps:
1.With your arms at your sides
2.With your arms overhead
3.With your hands on hips - Press firmly to flex your chest
muscles.
4.Bent forward - Inspect your breasts.
In these positions, your pectoral muscles are contracted,
and a subtle dimpling of the skin may appear if a growing tumor has affected a
ligament.
Lying down
# Right breast
1.Place a pillow under your right shoulder.
2.Put your right hand under your head.
3.Check the entire breast area with the finger pads of your
left hand.
4.Use small circles and follow an up-and-down pattern.
5.Use light, medium, and firm pressure over each area of the
breast.
6.Feel the breast with the surfaces of the second, third, and
fourth fingers, moving systematically and using small, circular motions from
the nipple to the outer margins.
7.Gently squeeze the nipple for any discharge.
# Left breast
1.Repeat these steps on your left breast using your right
hand.
In the shower
# A BSE can easily be performed while you're in the bath or
shower. Some women discover breast masses when their skin is moist.
1.Raise your right arm.
2.With soapy hands and fingers flat, check your right breast.
3.Use the same small circles and up-and-down pattern described
earlier.
4.Repeat on the left breast.
Note: All suggestions are only fast aid for diseases.