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Performing Breast Self-Exams
Breast Self-Exams
Why do a Breast Self Examination?
Breast self examination has been universally accepted by the experts as a very simple, significant and
effective method of early detection of Breast cancer . As with
all other types of cancer early detection and a high index of suspicion
are the keys to combating the menace of cancer .
When to do a Breast Self Examination?
- Breast Self Examination is done monthly.
- The time is 7-10 days from the expected start of the first day of your next period.
- It is to be done on the same day even when you are not menstruating.
How to Do it?
Use the left hand for the right breast and right and for the left. Apply firm pressure and make small circles
as you go back or forth (up or down, circular or spoke style) in a pattern covering all the breast area
including the nipple.
Standing in front of a mirror, examine each breast independently. Take note of your breasts' size,
shape, color, contour, and orientation. Has the size changed in any way? Have any of the nipples
turned in? Is there any discharge? Has the skin's texture changed?
Turn slowly from side to side while raising your arms over your head and focusing on your breasts.
Is there any skin swelling or puckering?
Lean forward and look for any changes to the shape or dimpling of the skin in each breast.
Now, while you're lying down, feel for any lumps or bumps with the pads of your three middle fingers.
Expand the inspection to include the underarm breast tissue. When you think you have felt every
area of the breast, keep running your hand across the nipple.Feel for lumps under and along the top
of the collar bone. Change your hand and repeat BSE on the opposite breast.
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