Breast Self-Exam

Mar 6, 2018
About Summit Cancer

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on breast self-examination brought to you by Sibel Blau, a trusted name in the field of oncology. We understand the importance of early detection and aim to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to perform a thorough and effective breast self-examination.

The Importance of Breast Self-Exam

Performing regular breast self-exams is crucial for early detection of any abnormalities in your breast tissue. By familiarizing yourself with the usual look and feel of your breasts, you can promptly identify any changes that may occur. Early detection is key in increasing the chances of successful treatment for breast conditions, including breast cancer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Breast Self-Exam

Follow these simple steps to perform a breast self-exam:

  1. Preparation: Find a comfortable, well-lit space where you can conduct the exam. Remove your clothing from the waist up and stand in front of a mirror.
  2. Visual Examination: Start by visually inspecting your breasts. Observe their size, shape, and the presence of any visible changes such as dimpling, puckering, or redness.
  3. Arm Movements: Raise both arms over your head and observe any changes in the shape or contour of your breasts.
  4. Lie Down: Lie down on a flat surface, such as your bed, and place a pillow under your right shoulder. Use the pads of your fingers, moving in small circular motions, to examine your right breast. Cover the entire breast area, including the armpit and collarbone.
  5. Pelvic Pressure: Apply firm pressure with your fingers as you move across the breast in an up-and-down pattern, systematically examining the entire area. Focus on identifying any lumps, thickening, or localized tenderness.
  6. Nipple Examination: Gently squeeze each nipple and check for any discharge or changes in its appearance.
  7. Repeat on the Other Side: Once you complete the examination on your right breast, repeat the same steps for your left breast.

Expert Tips and Advice

To ensure an effective breast self-exam, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Consistency: Perform a breast self-exam once a month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period ends. If you no longer menstruate, choose a specific day each month.
  • Thoroughness: Cover the entire breast area, including the upper chest and armpit region. Use the pads of your fingers rather than the tips for better sensitivity.
  • Familiarity: Get to know your breasts' normal look and feel so you can easily identify any changes that occur. Remember, everyone's breasts are unique.
  • Seek Professional Guidance: If you notice any changes or abnormalities during your breast self-exam, do not hesitate to consult with a medical professional or your healthcare provider.

Debunking Breast Self-Exam Myths

Let's separate fact from fiction by debunking some common myths related to breast self-exams:

Myth: Breast Self-Exams Are Not Necessary

Fact: Regular breast self-exams play a vital role in early detection, empowering individuals to take control of their breast health and identify potential issues promptly.

Myth: Only Older People Need to Perform Breast Self-Exams

Fact: Breast self-exams are recommended for individuals of all ages, as breast conditions can occur at any stage of life. Starting a routine early on creates a baseline for comparison in the future.

Myth: You Can Only Detect Breast Cancer through Mammograms

Fact: While mammograms are an essential diagnostic tool, they are not foolproof. By performing regular breast self-exams, you can identify changes that may not be detected by a mammogram.

Myth: All Breast Lumps Are Cancerous

Fact: Not all breast lumps are cancerous. In fact, the majority of lumps turn out to be benign. However, it's crucial to have any unusual lumps or changes assessed by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Taking the time to perform regular breast self-exams is a simple yet powerful step you can take to prioritize your breast health. By following the step-by-step guide, incorporating expert tips, and debunking common myths, you are well-equipped to take control of your breast health. Remember, early detection can save lives, so make breast self-exams a habit today.

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The level of detail and explanation in this article is commendable. It's a refreshing approach to health education.
Oct 1, 2023
Gen Furia
The emphasis on self-awareness and early detection is so important. Thank you for highlighting this in your article.
Sep 8, 2023
Angelina Kalay
Thank you for emphasizing the importance of not only knowing how to perform a breast self-exam but also understanding what to look for.
Sep 1, 2023
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The emphasis on regular self-exams is a call to action that every woman should answer. Thank you for the important reminder.
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May 24, 2023
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Apr 11, 2023
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The practicality and importance of self-exams are communicated effectively through this article. Thank you for the clarity.
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The encouragement to prioritize self-care and vigilance is a message that resonates deeply. Thank you for promoting awareness.
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I'm grateful for resources like this that empower women to take charge of their health. Knowledge is key.
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Unknown
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Feb 13, 2023
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I'm impressed with the thoroughness of the information provided. Every woman should have access to this type of knowledge.
Jan 22, 2023
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As a breast cancer survivor, I can attest to the importance of self-exams.
Dec 9, 2022
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The testimonies and insights shared in the article serve as a poignant reminder of the impact of early detection.
Dec 2, 2022
monsterclicks4
Information on self-exams is so crucial, and this guide makes it easily accessible. Thank you for the valuable insights.
Nov 19, 2022
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The promotion of self-exams as an empowering and proactive measure is a message that resonates deeply. Thank you for spreading awareness.
Oct 31, 2022
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Oct 30, 2022
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The detailed approach in this guide makes it easy for anyone to perform self-exams.
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I will definitely be sharing this guide with my loved ones. It's a must-read!
Aug 10, 2022
Ramsay Pierce
This article brings awareness and empowerment to the forefront. Thank you.
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Thank you for the detailed guide! It's important for every woman to be aware.
Apr 17, 2022
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The use of simple language and clear instructions makes this guide accessible to a wide audience. It's an inclusive approach.
Feb 20, 2022
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Empowering individuals with knowledge like this can make a real difference.
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The article's promotion of self-empowerment and proactive health practices is both commendable and necessary.
Jan 21, 2022
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The clear and comprehensive nature of this guide makes it a resource I'll be sure to share with other women.
Jan 5, 2022
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I found the instructions easy to follow. It's comforting to know that self-exams can potentially save lives.
Jan 3, 2022
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The guide instills confidence in performing self-exams. A great initiative!
Dec 26, 2021
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It's great to see a professional like Sibel Blau sharing her expertise on breast self-examination. Knowledge from trusted sources is essential.
Nov 29, 2021
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Oct 8, 2021
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This is an important reminder for all women to take charge of their breast health.
Aug 25, 2021
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Aug 7, 2021
Ray Caldwell
Thank you for providing this valuable guide. It's important for every woman to know how to perform a breast self-examination.
Jul 14, 2021
Rick Lasky
The emphasis on self-awareness and early detection is a message that cannot be repeated enough. Thank you for reiterating its importance.
Jun 30, 2021
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The clarity and simplicity of the instructions in this article make it easier for women to prioritize regular self-exams.
Jun 25, 2021
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Jun 21, 2021
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The step-by-step instructions provided here are very helpful. Thank you!
Jun 17, 2021
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As a breast cancer survivor, I can attest to the significance of performing regular self-exams. This article serves as a helpful reminder.
Mar 24, 2021
Oakland CA
I'll be sure to incorporate the tips provided here into my routine. Thank you!
Mar 9, 2021
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Mar 5, 2021
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Feb 24, 2021
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This guide doesn't just inform - it empowers. I feel more confident in my ability to perform self-exams after reading this.
Jan 22, 2021
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Dec 10, 2020
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Dec 5, 2020
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Nov 23, 2020
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I never realized the significance of regular self-exams until reading this. Thank you.
Oct 14, 2020
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Thank you for providing such a valuable resource to the community.
Aug 30, 2020
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The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. Thank you for driving home this critical message.
Aug 26, 2020
Nosh
As a daughter with a family history of breast cancer, I'm grateful for resources like this that educate and empower.
Jul 12, 2020
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Jun 8, 2020
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The guide's encouragement of regular self-exams is a call to action that every woman should heed. Thank you for the reminder.
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Apr 6, 2019
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I found the step-by-step breakdown of breast self-examination to be empowering and informative. Thank you for the guidance.
Mar 9, 2019
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