IS SELF-EXAMINATION IMPORTANT? HOW IS IT DONE?

A woman who examines herself regularly every month may notice a lump appearing in her breast earlier.

Various studies have shown that manual self-examination is not a good method for early detection of breast cancer. However, it helps raise breast cancer awareness. If self-examination causes anxiety, you may want to avoid it. Treating your mental health may be more challenging.

A woman who regularly examines herself monthly may be more likely to detect a lump in her breast earlier.

To perform the examination, stand upright in front of a mirror in a well-lit environment, with her arms hanging down to her sides. In this position, the breasts are examined to see if they are the same size and shape as they were a month ago, and to see if there are any changes to the skin surface and nipple. The breasts should also be examined for redness, a palpable lump, and especially for indentation or retraction of the nipple. Then, the arms are raised to examine the shape, size, and surface of the breast.

During a manual examination performed while lying down, the arm is raised above the head to flatten the breast and tense the chest muscles. A horizontal, parallel line is traced from the axilla to the nipple and from the breastbone to the nipple. Not every change detected in the breast tissue is a tumor. Normally, breast tissue consists of small lumps. These lumps become more visible or irregular before menstruation. In case of any doubt, a physician should be consulted.