Breast Self-Exam (BSE), is one of the methods that a woman can use to identify any abnormal changes in the breast. As a woman, BSE helps you to be familiar with the way your breasts feel and look, enabling you to easily identify changes you feel or see in your breasts. If you notice any changes in your breasts (could be change in color, size, nipple discharge or lumps), you should discuss this with your doctor immediately. However, you need to note that these changes do not usually imply the presence of cancer.
Steps to performing a BSE
- Begin by standing in front of a mirror without wearing a top and your hands on your sides. After that inspect your breasts visually for the following: Dimpling, inverted nipples, puckering, change in shape, symmetry or size, or uneven ridges at the bottom.
While checking for these signs, your hands should be maintained at your sides. You will also need to do the inspection with your arms above your head, and lastly when lifting a single breast at a time. - Use the pads of the fingers and not the tips of your fingers to inspect your breasts. Do this while lying down on your back and again while in the shower. Your fingers will easily glide over your skin thanks to the soap and water in the shower.
- Massage your fingers above your breasts starting at your nipple in a spiral manner. Take your time and apply varying pressure as you do this. Move up to the top section of your breast close to the collarbone, all the way to the central part of your breastbone. Also, massage the areas near your armpit. You can do this by placing one arm above your head while using your other hand to massage your breast.
4. Finally, squeeze your nipples gently to check if there is any discharge. What happens after a BSE?
If in your breast self-exam you find an abnormality, do not panic. It may not necessarily be indicative of cancer. It could many things, including a random cyst. Remember also that a good number of breast abnormalities are benign or noncancerous. But this is not also to say that you should ignore an abnormality or a lump. If your exam reveals a lump, you need to see your doctor who will arrange for professional examination of your breast. In case of a case of a misdiagnosis of cancer, you should seek the help of a qualified lawyer to help you sue for damages.
Conclusion
Even though a breast self-exam is not a perfect way to diagnose for cancer, it can help you detect any abnormality and talk to your doctor early. Early detection is important since it enables any problem to be managed before it becomes too late. Experts recommend that you do breast exam at least once in a month.
If you don’t menstruate, you should select a certain day for performing the exam, for instance the first day of every month. Remember to also keep a journal of these self-exams. This way, you can easily track and document changes you notice in your breasts.