Let's learn about your breasts yourself? (Breast Self-Exam) Simple step by step

As a woman, it's normal to feel a little scared and nervous when you hear the words "breast cancer," right? But rather than being scared, it's much better to be well-informed about our bodies, especially our breasts. Because then, if there's any change, we'll be able to recognize it quickly. That's why there's this simple method called Breast Self-Exam . This is something you can do at home.

What is a Breast Self-Exam?

Simply put, this is a method of examining your breasts yourself, step by step. The main goal of this is to learn what your breasts are "normal" for. That is, to get a good idea of ​​what your breasts usually look like and feel like. Then, if there is ever an unusual change, you will be able to recognize it quickly.

But research has shown that many women who develop breast cancer say that the first thing they noticed was a lump they felt at home. So if you know what's normal in your breasts, you can tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes.

What is the best time to do this test?

Doctors recommend doing this test on the same day every month . While it's not the only reliable way to detect cancer, it's one of the best things you can do at home to help keep your breasts healthy.

If you still have regular periods, the best time to do this test is right after your period. There's a reason for that. Before and during your period, your breasts may feel a little swollen, sore, and lumpy due to hormonal changes in your body. That's normal. So, once your period is over, your breasts will return to normal. You can get a clearer picture by checking them at that time.

How exactly do you do this breast self-examination?

This examination should be done in two parts. One is a visual examination . The other is a physical examination .

Another thing to remember is that your breast tissue is not limited to your breasts. It extends to your armpits, collarbone, and upper abdomen. So, when you examine your breasts, you need to cover the entire area. The entire examination will only take a few minutes.

1. Visual Examination

To do this, go in front of a mirror. Remove all your upper clothing and follow these steps.

2. Physical Examination

This test can be done in two ways: standing and lying down. In both methods, the test involves applying pressure to the breast tissue with your fingers.

Standing test

Many people do this test while bathing because it's very easy to feel when you run your fingers over soapy skin.

• First check your left breast with your right hand. Then check your right breast with your left hand.
• Use the pads of your three middle fingers.
• Feel each part of one breast. Apply light pressure first. Then apply medium pressure.Finally, apply a little firm pressure . It is important to test all three levels of pressure in this way.
• Look for any lumps, thickenings, or other changes.
• By moving your fingers in a circular pattern, you can examine every area of ​​the breast without missing a beat.
• Be sure to check the area near the armpits as well.
• Check the dark area around the nipple (areola) and squeeze the nipple to see if any liquid comes out (discharge).
• Now repeat these steps for the other breast.

Reclining examination

When you do this exam while lying down in bed, the breast tissue spreads flat on the surface of the bed, making it easier to detect lumps. This method is especially suitable for someone with larger breasts.

• First, lie down on the bed, place a pillow under your right shoulder, and place your right hand behind your head.
• Now, with the middle fingers of your left hand, carefully examine every part of your right breast.
• As before, test using light, medium, and heavy pressure.
• Be sure to check around the armpits, up to the collarbone, and around the nipple.
• Squeeze the nipple and see if any fluid comes out.
• Now move the pillow under your left shoulder, place your left hand behind your head, and check your left breast in the same way with your right hand.

What problems can arise when doing this test?

Although this self-test is very useful, sometimes two problems can arise.

1. Thinking of it as a replacement for medical tests: Some people think that because they can do this test at home, they don't need to see a doctor or get a mammogram. This is completely wrong. This is just something you can do to educate yourself about your body.

2. Unnecessary fear and anxiety: If you feel something like a lump, you may be afraid that it might be cancer. But in reality, most lumps felt in the breast are not cancer. So don't be unnecessarily worried.

What changes should I see a doctor for?

If you notice any of the following changes, don't worry too much about it and see your doctor immediately.

The doctor will examine you and, if necessary, refer you for further tests, such as an ultrasound or mammogram.