Breast self-examination is a vital practice for detecting lumps or other abnormal changes in the breasts. During a self-exam, women can identify lumps, nodules, tender areas, increased sensitivity, and other unusual signs. This routine also helps individuals understand the normal shape and feel of their breast tissue, making it easier to notice new changes.

According to Health, breasts often change due to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Therefore, women should perform a breast self-exam once a month, ideally 3-5 days after the start of their period, when breast tissue is less affected by hormones, making abnormalities easier to detect. Postmenopausal women should also maintain this monthly self-examination routine.

Abnormal signs to note include: hardened or thickened breast skin, changes in breast texture, size, or shape, dimpled or wrinkled skin, discharge, the appearance of nodules, cysts, pain, or swelling.

Breast examination helps early detection of abnormalities. *Photo: AI*

The breast examination steps should take about 15 minutes:

Step 1: Lie on your back and place your right arm behind your head.

Step 2: Use the pads of your middle fingers on your left hand to press down and examine your entire right breast.

Step 3: Vary the pressure from light to moderate to firm to examine all layers of breast tissue.

Step 4: Sit up and press deeply into your armpit to check for lumps, keeping your right arm raised.

Step 5: Gently squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge.

Step 6: Lie down, switch arms, and repeat the same procedure for the other breast.

Step 7: Stand upright and examine your breasts in a mirror, with your arms at your sides, to identify any signs of swelling, lumps, or discoloration.

Step 8: Perform a second visual inspection while standing upright, raising both arms to look for changes.

According to Cleveland Clinic, warning signs of breast cancer during a self-exam include: nipples that are inverted or do not protrude; red, sore, rash-like, or swollen skin around the nipple; breast skin that is dimpled or wrinkled like an orange peel; and abnormal nipple discharge.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends breast self-examination as part of overall health care, but it does not replace screening methods. Women should undergo regular health check-ups and breast ultrasounds at least once a year to detect abnormalities early that might be missed by visual inspection or palpation. Early detection and timely treatment of breast cancer increase the chances of successful recovery and breast preservation.

Anh Chi (Compiled)