How to perform a self breast exam

[TeenHelp]

How to perform a self breast exam
By Cassie (Calico.)

A breast self exam, or BSE, is an exam that people do regularly to look for any possible changes in their breasts. Mammograms are able to see tumors before they can be felt, but a self exam will allow you to understand the normal appearance and feeling of your breasts. This understanding will help you to determine whether or not there are any abnormalities in your breasts. According to John Hopkins Medical Center, 40% percent of women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer felt a lump [source]. People should examine their breasts at least once a month. Breast exams can be performed while lying down, standing in front of a mirror, or while taking a shower.

Standing in front of the mirror
Step one: Rest your arms loosely to your sides. Note any changes in size, shape, position, and coloration. Look for swelling, dimpling, sores, and differences in your nipples.
Step two: Firmly place your hands on your hips, and lean outward to show your breast muscles. Turn your body in different directions and pay attention to any differences in the outer part of your breasts. You can do the same by holding your hands behind your head and leaning outwards.
Step three: Slightly raise one arm at a time to keep the tissue loose. Feel around your underarm, and take note of any changes. Repeat with the other arm.
Step four: Carefully place your fingers around your nipples. Give a little tug, and look for any discharge.

Lying down
Lying down allows your breast tissue to spread evenly.
Step one: Lie on your back and support your right arm with a pillow. Place your right hand beneath your head, and use your left hand to feel your right breast. Start with your outer breast, and make your way around in circles until you've felt the entire breast. It helps to think of your breast as the face of a clock. Be sure to use different pressures, too. Press lightly, add a little pressure, and then press firmly. Repeat this step with your left breast.
Step two: Lightly squeeze your nipples to look for any kind of discharge.

In the shower
While in the shower, it is suggested to have your hands lathered with soap.
Step one: Rest your right hand on your hip, and use your left hand to feel for any differences in your underarm. Do the same with the other side.
Step two: Put your right hand behind your head, and use your left hand to press into your right breast. Start at the bottom of your breast, and move toward your collarbone until you've felt all of it. Repeat this step for your other breast.
Step three: Use your fingers to feel above and below your collarbone. Pay attention to lumps or any particularly dense areas.

Note: Breasts are not always the same size, and that is normal. Look for abnormalities in one breast at a time rather than comparing the two.

Breast exams do not help with early detection, but they will allow you to understand what is normal for your body. Talk to your doctor if you find anything unusual while doing a self breast exam. People over fifty should get a mammogram every two years, and anyone of a younger age should speak to their doctor about mammograms [source].