Breast Self-Exam Steps - Breast Cancer Doctor Explains

Introduction

Early detection of breast cancer can increase the effectiveness of breast cancer treatment in Kolkata. Therefore, it is essential for women to periodically self-examine their breasts and consult a doctor upon finding anything other than the ordinary. 

 

No single test guarantees the early detection of all breast cancers. However, the best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata believes that self-examination in combination with other screening methods can increase the chances of early detection.

 

 

Breast Self-Exam Steps

Step 1: Stand in front of a mirror and look at your breasts with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. Look for any of the following changes to your breast – 

• Bulging of the skin, dimpling or puckering

• A nipple that has changed position or pushed inward instead of sticking out

• Swelling, redness or soreness

Step 2: Raise your arms above your head and look for the changes mentioned above.

Step 3: Look for any signs of fluid discharge (watery, milky or yellowish) from one or both of your nipples.

Step 4: Lie down and touch your breasts using your hands and feel for any lumps. Use your left hand to feel your right breast and your right hand to feel your left breast. Keep the first few finger pads of your hand together and firmly and smoothly touch your breasts. Use a small circular motion about the size of a coin.

Ensure that you cover the entire breast and feel all the tissues from the front to the back. Use light pressure to touch the skin and tissue just beneath your breasts; use medium pressure to feel the tissue in the middle; use firm pressure for the deep tissue in the back. You can also move your fingers vertically to feel your breasts.

Step 5: Feel your breasts for any lumps while standing or sitting with the same hand movements mentioned above. If you find it easier to feel your breasts when the skin is wet and slippery, you can do this step in the shower. 

What if you find a Lump?

Most women find a lump in their breast and most lumps turn out to be non-cancerous. However, if you find a lump, consult a doctor, says a top breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata. The doctor will conduct exams like ultrasound and a mammogram to evaluate your lump. If needed, further tests will be recommended.