As a doctor, particularly a female doctor, I can’t encourage my female patients enough when it comes to self examination of their breasts. You know you body best and are the most qualified person to pick up any changes. The problem is that many conditions are may not have specific symptoms such as pain, or lumps. Some can be as subtle as skin changes or mild discomfort. It’s up to you to get to know your body so you will be the first person pick up anything of change or report it to your doctor. Taking this one small step is can be life saving.
My top tips for breast examination
1)
LOOKÂ
Easiest to do looking straight ahead in the mirror with your shoulders are in a neutral position.
Do they look symmetrical?
Are there any skin changes?
Is the nipple in the same position? Any signs of nipple inversion?
Is there any fluid/blood leaking from the nipple?
Now raise your arms up to side the side of head and look for the same points in this position.
RED FLAG SIGNS TO REPORT TO YOUR DOCTOR
Visable lumps
- Skin plucking/ skin dimpling
- Nipple inversionÂ
- Redness/rash of the skin
- Nipple discharge
2)
FEEL
Keep your fingers together and your palm down, firmly but gently press down and move your hand around the breast in a circular motion.
Divide your breast into four quarters and make sure you cover each area.
Also feel up into your under arm area.
Feel each breast in turn.
Do it both sitting and lying
RED FLAG SIGNS TO REPORT TO YOUR DOCTOR
Any lumps – both single lumps or lumpy areas
Any lumps in you under arm area.
