Have you saved your own life today? If you haven’t, take a moment and give yourself a breast self-exam (BSE). It’s quick, it’s easy, and it could potentially aid in the early detection of breast cancer.
The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more likely treatment will be successful. In addition, just as every woman’s bodies are different, every woman’s breasts are different. BSEs help you become familiar with your own breasts, so that it is easier for you to determine if something has changed. So, take a couple of minutes each month and check yourself out.
Part 1: Standing Up In Front Of A Mirror
1. Place your hands on your hips.
2. Visually examine each breast. Look for any changes in size or shape.
Part 2: Standing with Arm Raised
1. Raise your right arm to the side.
2. Examine your right armpit with your left hand.
3. Using your three middle fingers (pointer, middle, and ring fingers), slowly examine your right breast using a grid pattern. Move from top to bottom, then right to left, pressing on each spot in a small, circular motion.
4. Use three levels of pressure: light, medium, and firm. This examines all levels of breast tissue.
5. Switch positions and repeat for the left breast.
Part 3: Lying Down
1. Place a pillow or towel under your right shoulder.
2. Place your right hand behind your head.
3. Repeat the process you used while standing up. Using your three middle fingers (pointer, middle, and ring fingers), slowly examine your right breast using a grid pattern. Move from top to bottom, then right to left, pressing on each spot in a small, circular motion.
4. Use three levels of pressure: light, medium, and firm. This examines all levels of breast tissue.
5. Switch positions and repeat for the left armpit and left breast.
If during your breast self exam you find something that you feel is out of the ordinary, like a lump or a thickened area, talk to your health care provider as soon as you can. Your health care provider will then provide a clinical breast exam and provide further information.
For more information, as well as images for a breast self-exam, please visit http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/womens-health/breast-exam-21194.htm.
Rethink Breast Cancer has an app that features hot guys reminding you to check your breasts. Check it out below, and then go check yourself out!