The 411 on Breast Self Exams - Part 2 of 3

An earlier post talked about the importance of screening mammography and who is eligible when. Now we are going to discuss breast self exams. That's right, checking the girls, as some say.

Check out this promo video encouraging women to check their breasts.

It used to be that there was a very specific way to check that was promoted. Now, we just want you to know how things normally look and feel for you. Some changes are simply visual and can not be felt so both looking and feeling are important. If you notice any changes, talk to your doctor. Please know that most changes you find WILL NOT BE BREAST CANCER but it is important to speak to your doctor to rule things out. In fact, 8 out of 10 lumps you find are not cancerous.

I really like this visual from the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation's website found in their breast awareness section here

Nipple changes Redness  Nipple discharge    Lumps/thickening Skin changes Dimpling/puckering