A self breast exam is a simple but important practice that allows individuals to detect any unusual changes in their breasts early. Recognizing changes in your breast tissue can help with early detection of breast cancer, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment. This detailed guide will walk you through the significance of self breast exams, the recommended techniques, and how you can incorporate it into your regular health routine.
What is a Self Breast Exam?
A self breast exam (SBE) is a process where individuals examine their own breasts to look for any changes, such as lumps, skin changes, or unusual feelings within the tissue. Regularly performing a self breast exam can help you understand what’s normal for your body. This knowledge makes it easier to notice any abnormalities that may develop over time, such as lumps or skin changes that could signal a potential health concern, including breast cancer.
While the American Cancer Society and other health organizations no longer formally recommend routine self breast exams as a screening method for breast cancer, they emphasize the importance of breast self-awareness. This means being familiar with the natural texture, shape, and feel of your breasts so that you can quickly detect any changes that may need medical attention.
Why Should You Perform a Self Breast Exam?
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and while it may not always present symptoms, early detection through self breast awareness can play a crucial role in improving survival rates. A self breast exam helps you become familiar with the typical look and feel of your breasts, so you can more easily spot any unusual changes. In some cases, early detection of a change can lead to a quicker diagnosis, enabling you to explore treatment options early.
It’s important to note that most breast changes, including lumps, are not cancerous. Many women have lumpy breast tissue, which is often influenced by hormonal changes. However, noticing a change early allows for timely consultation with a doctor, which can lead to quicker treatment and better outcomes.
When Should You Perform a Self Breast Exam?
The best time to do a self breast exam is usually just after your menstrual period ends, when your breasts are least likely to feel swollen or tender. If you do not menstruate, choose a specific day of the month to perform the exam, so it becomes a regular routine. Whether you are in your 20s or older, incorporating a self breast exam into your monthly health routine can help you track any changes over time.
For younger women, it may not always be easy to differentiate between normal breast tissue and changes that may require attention. As women age, hormonal changes may cause the tissue to become denser or more lumpy, but self breast exams still play a vital role in breast health awareness.
How to Perform a Self Breast Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide
A self breast exam is a simple procedure that can be done at home in the comfort of your own space. The goal is to be familiar with your body and notice anything that feels different from your usual self.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you conduct an effective self breast exam:
Step 1: Look in the Mirror
Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms by your sides. Take a good look at your breasts. You should observe the following:
- Normal size, shape, and color.
- Symmetry (are both breasts the same size and shape?).
- Any visible skin changes, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.
- Changes in the nipple, like inversion or discharge.
Step 2: Raise Your Arms
Now, raise your arms above your head. Look for the same changes as before, checking for any unusual dimpling, swelling, or changes in shape or size.
Step 3: Check for Discharge from the Nipples
While standing in front of the mirror, gently squeeze each nipple to see if there’s any discharge. This could include milky, yellow, or even bloody fluid, which should be addressed by a healthcare provider immediately.
Step 4: Perform a Physical Exam While Lying Down
Lie down flat on your back, as this position spreads the breast tissue evenly across your chest wall. Use your left hand to examine your right breast and your right hand to examine your left breast. Use the pads of your fingers to gently press the entire breast area, moving in small, circular motions. It’s helpful to break down the area into three parts: the upper part of the breast near the collarbone, the outer part near the armpit, and the lower part closer to the ribcage.
Apply different pressure levels: light pressure for the tissue closest to the skin, medium pressure for the middle tissue, and deep pressure for the tissue near your ribs. Check for any unusual lumps or thickening of the tissue.
Step 5: Repeat the Process Standing or Sitting
Once you finish lying down, repeat the process standing or sitting, as gravity can make some lumps easier to feel. It’s also a good idea to check your breasts while in the shower, as water and soap make it easier to move your fingers around.
If you discover a lump or observe any change
The first thing to do is stay calm. Many breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and can be caused by hormonal changes, cysts, or other non-cancerous conditions like fibroadenomas. That being said, if you find a new lump or notice any changes that are different from your usual breast tissue, it’s important to contact your doctor as soon as possible for a professional evaluation.
Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and may order additional tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy to evaluate the lump further. Mammograms are the standard screening tool for women over the age of 40, while younger women may be given ultrasounds if they have dense breast tissue.
Other Ways to Screen for Breast Cancer
While a self breast exam is an important tool for self-awareness, it should not be your only method of breast cancer screening. Regular mammograms and professional breast exams are critical for detecting breast cancer early, especially in women over the age of 40. In some cases, your doctor may recommend an MRI or ultrasound to screen for breast cancer if you are at higher risk or have dense breast tissue.
It is also important to talk to your healthcare provider about any personal or family history of breast cancer, as this may affect your screening plan. Breast cancer risk factors include genetics, hormone therapy, age, and lifestyle factors. Your doctor will be able to develop a screening plan tailored to your specific needs.
Benefits of Regular Self Breast Exams
- Early Detection: Regular self breast exams can help you spot changes early, which can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment.
- Familiarity with Your Body: Regular exams allow you to get to know the natural look and feel of your breasts, which makes it easier to notice changes.
- Non-invasive: A self breast exam is free and easy to perform, with no need for medical equipment or a visit to the doctor.
- Empowerment: Being proactive about your breast health helps empower you to take charge of your wellbeing.
Conclusion
A self breast exam is a powerful tool for breast cancer awareness and early detection. By regularly performing self-exams and paying attention to any changes in your breasts, you are taking an active role in your health. It’s important to combine self breast exams with regular screenings, mammograms, and doctor visits to ensure a comprehensive approach to breast health.
While self breast exams are not a replacement for professional screenings, they are a vital step in helping you identify changes early. If you notice any abnormal changes in your breasts, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider. Early detection can lead to better outcomes, and taking the time to perform a self breast exam is an important way to prioritize your health.
