Have You Checked Your Breasts?

Self-examination of your breasts is one of the most important steps you can take for your health and wellbeing. Up to 40% of diagnosed breast cancers actually come from women who felt a lump at home. So, doing your part in preventing serious consequences from breast cancer is indeed crucial. This simple self-exam takes only a few minutes of your time and can be done in the privacy of your own home.

Although breast cancer is more commonly found among women over their 50s, medical professionals have suggested that it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what’s normal for your breasts. Therefore, women of all ages should get into the habit of examining their breasts at least once a month. This allows you to not only learn more about your natural curves, but also allows you to quickly detect any changes if and when they occur.

What should you be looking for when checking your breasts?

A pair of healthy breasts come in all shapes and sizes, some may be naturally lumpy, some more firm than others or some that are soft. The key is to learn what is normal for you.

1. A painless lump.
Lumps can be located anywhere on the breast so be sure to check all around, especially arounds the glands under your arms. Similar to that that comes up under your chin when you have a sore throat, an enlarged gland in the armpit may be a sign of cancer. If it’s something that you’ve just recently spotted and is not tender, please seek advice from your doctor.

2. A change in breast size or shape.
This one is pretty easy to detect. If there is a noticeable change in your breasts such as them no longer matching in shape and size, or if the skin seems puckered or pulled in when you raise your arms, then you should get that checked by a doctor.

3. Any signs around the nipples.
If you do not suffer from eczema and if you aren’t breastfeeding either, then you should not find a rash on the nipples. But if you do, please seek advice as well. Any sort of spontaneous discharge from the nipple, that is either clear or blood-stained may also be a sign of cancer.

How to check your breasts?

The National Breast Cancer Foundation encourages women to perform these self-examinations at least once a month.
Here’s how:



1. In front of a mirror
Rest your arms at your sides and visually examine your breasts. Then, raise your arms above your head and look for any changes in the contour of your breast shape, swelling around the skin or a change in colour of the nipples.

Then, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex the muscles in your chest. Do take note that generally, your breasts will not match exactly though there are a small majority of women with breasts that do. Then, look for any visible changes in your breasts, especially if it is only on one side.

2. Lying down
While you’re lying down, place a pillow behind your head, and under your right shoulder and arm. Use your left hand and gently feel around your entire right breast and armpit area in small circular motions. Be sure to use light, medium and firm pressure to be familiar with and access the layers of tissue in your breasts. Squeeze your nipples gently and check for any discharge and lumps.

Then, repeat these steps for your left breast.

3. In the shower
Using your fingers, examine your entire breast and armpit area with a circular pattern, moving from the outside to the center. Check both of your breasts for any lumps or swelling. If you notice any changes, alert your doctor immediately.