The best time to perform a breast self exam (in women who are still
menstruating) is about three (3) days after the last day of your (menstrual)
period. The breasts normally swell and can develop typical lumpiness when
ovulating (approx. 14 days after your period ends) and pre-menstrual especially.
This way if you wait until at the 3 day mark the breasts are not as likely to be
swollen or tender during this time. If you at an age where you don't menstruate
any longer, you should pick a time that is most convenient to you and stick with
it - examining your breast the same day each month to compare variances.
Stand in front of a mirror and look for anything out of the ordinary (i.e. dark
spots, peculiar obvious bulges, lumps or dents. Raise each arm separately and
check for any changes from at rest at your side to raised position. Note any odd
sensations as well and write them down if need be.
Now, raise one arm over your head and start with the pads of your fingertips in
a clockwise position. Start at the outer most 12 o' clock part and make little
clockwise turns with your finger tips. Then move to the 1 o' clock position and
do a little clockwise motion with your fingertips for that area, and on and on
until you reach 12 o' clock again. Then move in more towards the nipple and do
an even smaller clock, and on and on (depending upon the size of your breasts).
Almost like a clock (or two) within a clock. Feel in and around your armpit as
well for swollen lymph glands or possible cysts, tumors or otherwise. Take
notice of any tender or painful spots during the exam. Repeat with the opposite
breast. It may take a few minutes at first but you will become faster as you get
accustomed to it.Choose any exercise (1 - 4) and perform each month at the same time.
Preferably 14 days after your period ends.
1. Begin with small clockwise rotations at the 12, 1, 2, 3, etc. positions like
a clock. Reverse.
2. Start on the outside and work your way inward, in a spiral pattern until you
reach the nipple center. Work your way outward again.
3. Branch out from the nipple in a starburst pattern.
4. Feel around in strips back and forth, from top to bottom, until you have felt
every inch of your breasts.
Next, lie down on a firm bed or floor, completely flat, so your breast tissue,
glands and fat cells spread out to the sides more easily, This is especially
helpful when one has breast implants. To begin, raise either arm over your head
and use the pads of your fingertips of the opposite hand to feel around the same
technique as when you were standing. Repeat with the opposite breast.
Take note of any discharge, changes in contour, color, lumps, firmness, pressure
sensitivity or anything else you find to odd and report to your physician
immediately. Early detection of possible tumors, calcifications, cysts, etc. is
the best at defeating breast cancer. It helps to keep a little journal for your
Breast self exams for monthly comparison and as a reference should the need ever
arise for you to discuss this with your physician. Remember! Perform your breast
self exams the same time each month.
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