It’s October, which means it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While regular check-ups with your General Practitioners are essential, so is learning how to self-exam your breasts at home. Approximately 74% of Pakistani women with breast cancer discover the lump themselves, which highlights the importance of examining your breasts at home. It’s crucial that we regularly check our breasts for changes, no matter how big or small. If you want to learn more about self-examination for breast cancer, then read more.
STEP 1
Stand in front of a mirror and become aware of the normal consistency of your breasts from all angles. Note their size, pigmentation, the appearance of the skin, and the appearance of the nipple.
STEP 2
Using four fingers and the palm, begin at the outer edge of the breast, working around in a full 360-degree circle. Keep pressing the breast in circular motions for a few minutes, noticing if any breast tissue feels different from the rest.
STEP 3
Next, check your armpit, as breast tissue extends here. Raising one arm above your head, use your four fingers and palm, and feel around the breast tissue. Repeat with your other armpit. Gently squeeze your nipple and check for discharge.
Remember, you should self-exam your breast every month, 5 to 6 days after the end of the period cycle (not during periods or before periods). If you are in doubt after your at-home self-examination, always seek further advice from your General Practitioners or local healthcare practitioner.