Regular breast self-exams are an essential part of maintaining good breast health. By familiarizing yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts, you can detect any changes early and seek medical attention if needed. In this article, we will discuss how and when to perform breast self-exams.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

Follow these steps to perform a breast self-exam:

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in size, shape, or contour of your breasts.

Raise your arms above your head and look for the same changes.

Place your hands on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Look for any changes in the contour of your breasts.

Lie down and use your right hand to feel your left breast in a circular motion, starting from the outside and moving towards the nipple. Repeat on the other side with your left hand.

Finally, gently squeeze each nipple to check for any discharge.

When to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

It is recommended that women perform a breast self-exam once a month. The best time to do this is a few days after your period ends, when your breasts are less likely to be tender or swollen. If you no longer have periods, choose a day of the month that is easy for you to remember, such as the first or last day.

What to Look For

When performing a breast self-exam, be on the lookout for the following changes:

Lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm area

Changes in the size, shape, or contour of the breast

Redness, warmth, or swelling

Dimpling or puckering of the skin

Changes in the nipple, such as inversion or discharge

If you notice any of these changes, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Conclusion

Breast self-exams are a simple yet effective way to monitor your breast health. By performing regular self-exams and being aware of what is normal for your body, you can detect any changes early and seek appropriate medical care if needed. Remember to perform a breast self-exam once a month and consult with your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning changes. Your breast health matters!