Breast Self Examination

You are more aware about breast cancer. But you also need to perform a breast examination to keep breast cancer at bay or to detect it while it is in its early stages. (Credit: Merfam)

You are more aware about breast cancer. But you also need to perform a breast examination to keep breast cancer at bay or to detect it while it is in its early stages. Breast examination should be done at regular intervals – the ideal time is just after a menstrual cycle.

Step 1: Look at your breast in the mirror while standing. Look for any changes in size or shape, retraction of the nipple, dimple or thickening of the skin, or any obvious lump.

Step 2: Raise both your arms and look for any asymmetry in your breasts.

Step 3: Keep your arms on your hips and press them firmly. This position may help in showing any retraction or dimpling present over the skin of the breast.

Step 4: Lie down on your back with one of your arms out-stretched. Use the other hand, keeping your fingers close to each other, and feel the breast with the flat surface of the fingers for any lumps. Do not feel the breast between fingertips and the thumb since this is likely to give a lumpy feel even in a normal breast. Press firmly to know how your breast feels. A firm ridge at the lower curve of each breast is normal.

Step 5: Feel the whole breast in a systematic manner. The breast is divided into five parts – the upper inner area, upper outer area, lower inner area, lower outer area and the central area, the nipple. Feel all the parts of the breast without missing any area. Repeat the procedure on the other breast.