Breast self-examination

Breast self-examination visual guide

Breast self-examination (BSE) is a method by which individuals can check their own breasts for breast cancer or other abnormalities. It is a simple procedure that can be performed at home and is intended to help individuals become familiar with the normal state of their breasts, so that they can detect any changes early.

Purpose

The primary purpose of breast self-examination is to increase awareness of the normal condition of one's breasts and to detect any unusual changes as early as possible. While BSE is not a substitute for professional medical screening, such as mammography, it can be a useful tool for early detection of breast abnormalities.

Procedure

Breast self-examination involves a few simple steps that can be performed in front of a mirror, in the shower, or lying down. The examination typically includes visual inspection and manual palpation.

Visual Inspection

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Breast self-examination step 1

1. Stand in front of a mirror with shoulders straight and arms on hips. 2. Look for any changes in the shape, size, or symmetry of the breasts. 3. Check for any visible distortion or swelling. 4. Raise arms and look for the same changes. 5. Look for any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples.

Manual Palpation

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Three methods of breast self-examination

1. Lie down and use the right hand to feel the left breast and vice versa. 2. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few fingers of the hand, keeping the fingers flat and together. 3. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side. 4. Follow a pattern to ensure that the entire breast is covered, such as circular, vertical, or wedge patterns. 5. Feel for any lumps, thickening, or hardened knots.

Importance of Regular Examination

Regular breast self-examinations can help individuals become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts. This familiarity can make it easier to notice any changes, such as lumps or thickenings, which should be reported to a healthcare professional promptly.

Limitations

While breast self-examination can be a useful tool for early detection, it is not a replacement for regular screening by a healthcare professional. BSE does not detect all breast cancers, and not all detected lumps are cancerous. Therefore, it is important to combine BSE with other screening methods, such as clinical breast exams and mammograms.

Related Pages

• Breast cancer
• Mammography
• Clinical breast examination