Breast Self Examination

Breast self examination (BSE) is an important step towards early detection of breast cancer. Such self-examination of breasts must be performed by every adult woman throughout her lifetime. This self breast exam must be supplemented with clinical examination by a physician after a woman reaches forty years of age. Early detection of breast lumps can go a long way in detecting cancer. This early prognosis can help in achieving a complete cure.

Self exam of breasts is an important step to find out if anything unusual has occurred. A breast self exam is best conducted after your monthly periods so as to rule out swollen and tender breasts. Such BSE combined with annual check ups by a doctor improves the chances of detecting breast cancer at an early stage. It is best to get yourself examined by a doctor once a year since there may be abnormalities that are difficult to feel and lumps or asymmetry that you may not notice.

What to look for during Breast Self Examination

• Check to see that breasts are their usual shape, size and color
  
• Observe any visible distortion or swelling
  
• Check for any dimpling, puckering or bulging of the skin
  
• Find out if there is any soreness, rash or swelling
  
• Check for inverted nipples
  
• Any discharge is also cause for concern
  

• Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight. Place your arms on your hips.
  
• Look for any changes when you raise your arms
  
• Check for any milky or bloody discharge from the nipples.
  
• Lie down and use your left hand to feel your right breast and vice versa. Using a smooth yet firm touch, cover the entire area spanning your armpit to your cleavage as well as from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen.

Women who are on oral contraceptives can conduct a breast self examination when embarking on a new pack of pills. Postmenopausal women can pick up a particular day of the month so that they can stick to it. Such a self breast exam needs to be made a part of every woman's life. This simple yet important procedure can go a long way in detecting the presence of the Big C.