Doing A Breast Self-Exam At Home

​Women should do breast self-exam monthly to feel and spot changes. Doing this regularly can help you keep your breast healthy and detect cancer early. Also, it will be easier to treat with a high probability of being cured. Keep reading to learn how to perform a breast self-exam at home.

Manual Inspection While Lying Down
Lying down lets your breast tissue spread more evenly, so this is an ideal position to check and feel for changes, especially for large breasts. 

Step 1. Lie down and place your right shoulder on top of a pillow 
Step 2. Put your right arm behind your head
Step 3. Do the same procedure using your left hand 
Step 4. Use your finger pads to press all breast tissue parts and under your arm
Step 5. Place the pillow on the other side to check for the other armpit and breast
Step 6. Check below the areola and squeeze the nipple to see if there’s a discharge.

Manual Inspection While Standing up
You will have to inspect your breast with your arms by your side and with your arms above the head for the standing part.

Step 1. Remove your bra and shirt and use your right hand to check your right and left breasts
Step 2. Press lightly on every part of the breast with 3 fingers
Step 3.  Feel for thick spots, lumps, or any changes. Doing it circular pattern can ensure you hit all spots
Step 4. Press your under arm’s tissue 
Step 5. Don’t forget to check the areola and squeeze gently to check for discharge

Visual Inspection
The last of the suggested positions are visually inspecting it. It can check for changes in shapes, size, and symmetry. 

Step 1. Topless, put your arms down on your sides
Step 2. Check for any changes in shape and nipples, swelling, and skin dimpling.
Step 3. Raise your arms high over the head and check for the same things
Step 4. Place your hands on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles

Wrapping Up
Doing regular breast exams can help you be more familiar with your body, know what is normal for you, and be more aware of any changes that occur.

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