Things to note when self-examining breast cancer

Breast self-examination can help with early detection and early treatment of breast cancer. During the self-examination process, you should pay attention to the following matters to avoid damage to the breasts due to improper operation.

Pay attention to your body position

The examinee should sit with the front chest fully exposed and the hands on the waist. The examination should be conducted in a well-lit place. The examinee can also lie in the supine position with a not-too-high pillow or a folded towel under the left shoulder, the left arm raised, and the left hand placed under the head. Try to avoid other positions.

Note the method

The main methods of self-examination are visual examination and palpation. Women can observe the shape of the breasts and skin in front of the mirror to see if there are any abnormalities. When palpating, if you are in a supine position, you should straighten your right fingers and divide the breasts into 4 areas, starting from the midpoint of the upper part, and massage and check in a clockwise direction with your fingers close to the skin. Do not pinch the breasts with your hands.

Pay attention to time

The best time to perform breast self-examination is 9-12 days after menstruation, because the breast glands are affected by estrogen during the menstrual cycle. During this period, the glands are in a relatively static state and will not affect the examination results.

Watch for symptoms

During self-examination, if you find lumps, enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits, bloody and serous secretions when gently grasping the nipple, changes in nipple color, changes in breast shape and skin, you should be alert and go to the hospital for examination in time to avoid worsening of the condition and making it difficult to cure.