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Breast Care
Breast cancer is one of the leading forms of cancer affecting millions of women worldwide. This cancer can be controlled easily if detected early enough. Thus, women are advised to examine their breasts monthly and contact their doctor if they find something abnormal.
Breast self examination (BSE) should start at the age of 20, and should be performed monthly throughout a woman's life. Women should also have regular clinical breast exams performed by qualified physicians. After the age of 40, it is also recommended that women get regular mammograms. Most breast lumps (75-80%) are not serious, and might disappear on their own, however, they should never be ignored.
BSE should be performed a week after menstruation or in the case of women using oral contraceptives, on the day they begin a new package of pills.
Follow our steps for easy breast self examination.
Stand in front of the mirror and raise your arms. Look for changes in the shape of the breasts, the color and the texture of the skin and the nipples. Check for any nipple discharge.
Lie on your back and use your left hand to palpate the right breast whilst holding your right arm at right angles to your rib cage with your elbows bent. Examine every inch of your breast using different levels of pressure to palpate. Palpations should be done in small circular movements, without lifting the fingers from the breast. Repeat this step on the other breast.
Squeeze your nipple gently to check for any abnormal discharge (particularly blood or sticky clear discharge). Also check if the nipple inverts or changes the direction it points to.
Examine the breast tissue that extends to under your arm pits watching out for any thickening or swelling.
IMPORTANT TIP - Use a search pattern to make sure you check all of your breast tissue.
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