Self-Breast Exams: What You Need to Know

Regular self-breast exams are an important part of maintaining your breast health. While they’re not a substitute for professional screenings, they can help you become familiar with your breasts and potentially detect changes early. In this post, we’ll cover the essentials of performing a self-breast exam.

When to Perform Self-Breast Exams:

• Aim to conduct a self-exam once a month
• For menstruating women, choose a few days after your period ends
• If you don’t menstruate, pick a consistent day each month

How to Perform a Self-Breast Exam:

Visual Inspection:

•   Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides
•   Look for any changes in size, shape, or color
•   Check for dimpling, puckering, or changes in skin texture
•   Repeat with your arms raised above your head

Physical Examination:

•   Lie down on your back
•   Use the pads of your fingers to examine each breast in a circular motion
•   Cover the entire breast area, including the armpit
•   Apply varying levels of pressure to feel different tissue depths

What to Look For:

• Lumps or thickening
• Changes in size or shape
• Skin changes (redness, dimpling, puckering)
• Nipple changes (inversion, discharge)

Remember:

• Not all lumps are cancerous, but any changes should be reported to your doctor
• Self-exams are not a replacement for mammograms or clinical breast exams

When to See Your Doctor:

If you notice any unusual changes during your self-exam, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider at Kernodle OB/GYN for a thorough evaluation.

Regular self-breast exams can be a valuable tool in maintaining your breast health. By familiarizing yourself with your breasts, you’re more likely to notice any changes that may occur. Remember, early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Kernodle OB/GYN today.