How to Do Breast Self Examination: A Step-by-Step Guide-Breast self-examination (BSE) is an important tool for women to detect any changes in their breasts that may indicate breast cancer. It is recommended that women perform BSE regularly, ideally once a month, to become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and to be able to identify any changes that may occur. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform BSE correctly and effectively.

What is Breast Self Examination?

Breast self-examination (BSE) is a technique used to examine your own breasts for any changes or abnormalities. It involves looking at and feeling your breasts for lumps, bumps, or changes in size, shape, or texture. BSE can be performed by women of any age and should be a regular part of your breast health routine.

Why Is Breast Self Examination Important?

Breast self-examination is important for early detection of breast cancer. By performing regular breast self-examinations, women can become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and detect any changes. Detecting breast cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.

When Should You Perform Breast Self-Examination?

It is recommended that women perform breast self-examination once a month, ideally at the same time each month. It is best to perform BSE a few days after your menstrual period ends when your breasts are less likely to be tender or swollen.

How to Prepare for Breast Self-Examination?

Before performing breast self-examination, you should prepare by finding a quiet and private place where you can concentrate. You should also make sure that your hands are clean and dry.

Steps for Breast Self-Examination

Here are the steps to follow when performing breast self-examination:

Step 1: Stand in Front of a Mirror

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look at your breasts and check for any changes in the size, shape, or color of your breasts or nipples. Also, check for any signs of swelling, redness, or rash on your breasts or nipples.

Step 2: Raise Your Arms

Raise your arms above your head and look for any changes in the size, shape, or color of your breasts or nipples. Check for any signs of swelling, redness, or rash on your breasts or nipples.

Step 3: Check for Any Changes in Your Breasts

Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Use your left hand to check your right breast. Use the pads of your fingers, not the tips, and apply light pressure in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast area, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breastbone. Repeat this process for your left breast.

Step 4: Check Your Breasts While Lying Down

Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Use your left hand to check your right breast. Use the pads of your fingers, not the tips, and apply light pressure in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast area, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breastbone. Repeat this process for your left breast.

Step 5: Check Your Breasts in the Shower

Check your breasts while in the shower by using soapy hands to feel for any changes in the size, shape, or texture of your breasts. Use the pads of your fingers, not the tips, and apply light pressure in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast area, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breastbone.

What to Look For During Breast Self-Examination?

During breast self-examination, you should look for any changes in the size, shape, or color of your breasts or nipples. You should also check for any signs of swelling, redness, or rash on your breasts or nipples. Other things to look for include:

• A lump or thickening in your breast or under your arm
• Nipple discharge
• Changes in the shape or position of your nipple
• Pain or tenderness in your breast or nipple

If you notice any of these changes, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Benefits of Breast Self Examination

The benefits of breast self-examination include:

• Early detection of breast cancer
• Increased awareness of your own breast health
• Improved self-esteem and confidence in your ability to care for your own health

Myths and Facts About Breast Self Examination

There are several myths and misconceptions about breast self-examination. Here are some facts:

• Myth: BSE is a reliable way to detect breast cancer.
• Fact: BSE is not a substitute for clinical breast exams and mammograms, but it is a valuable tool for detecting changes in your breasts.
• Myth: Breast cancer only affects women with a family history of the disease.
• Fact: Anyone can develop breast cancer, regardless of family history.
• Myth: Breast cancer always presents as a lump.
• Fact: Breast cancer can present in many different ways, including changes in breast size, shape, or texture, nipple discharge, or pain.

Tips for a Successful Breast Self Examination

Here are some tips for a successful breast self-examination:

• Perform BSE at the same time every month, preferably a few days after your period ends.
• Use a technique that feels comfortable to you, such as the shower method, the mirror method, or the lying down method.
• Check both breasts and the armpit area.
• Use different levels of pressure to examine different layers of breast tissue.
• If you find a lump, don’t panic. Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it is important to get them checked out by a healthcare provider.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts during breast self-examination. It is also important to have regular mammograms and clinical breast exams as recommended by your doctor.

Conclusion

Breast self-examination is a simple and effective way for women to become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and detect any changes that may indicate breast cancer. By performing regular breast self-examinations, women can increase their chances of detecting breast cancer early and receiving successful treatment.

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