Breast Self Examination

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Breast Self-Examination or self- diagnosis is an option for women starting in their 20s. Below are the techniques to perform BSE:

Fingers flat move gently over every part of each breast
Use your right hand to examine left breast, left hand for the right breast
Check for any lump, hard knot or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts

Stand in front of the mirror with both arms by your side and look closely at both of your breasts
Look for changes in size, colour or texture (these may be signs of inflammatory Breast Cancer)
Look for any changes in the contour of each breast, a swelling or a dimpling of skin or changes in the nipple. Then rest the palms on hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match – few women’s breasts do

Place a pillow under right shoulder, right arm behind your head. With fingers of left hand flat, press right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast
Pay attention to any change such as lumps, bumpy texture and tenderness)
Use light, medium and firm pressure. Gently press the nipple and check for discharge and changes in the nipple itself
After you examine your breast, move to your underarm (lymph node area) and look for changes there
Follow the same procedure on your left side