Why is a Breast Exam necessary ?

Within the realm of gynecological evaluation, the breast examination assumes a pivotal role, meriting inclusion in the comprehensive assessment of every woman seeking gynecological care. An ordinary breast examination holds the potential to unveil hidden breast anomalies, unnoticed by the patient. This is particularly crucial in cases where an ovarian tumor is suspected to have spread. Furthermore, in the context of infertility investigations, the presence of galactorrhea may signal the involvement of hyperprolactinemia as an underlying cause of infertility.

In cases of “absence of periods”, the condition of the breasts can provide valuable diagnostic clues. Ill-developed breasts may suggest a hypothalamic-pituitary origin (hormonal-brain feedback problem) for absence of periods, while well-developed secondary sexual characteristics (growth of pubic hair, developed breasts and widened hips) may point toward a localized genital cause. The importance of regular breast examinations is underscored, especially for women undergoing hormonal replacement therapy.

Breast Self Exam

Performing a breast self-exam (BSE) at home is a simple yet important part of breast health awareness. Regular self-exams can help you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, making it easier to detect any changes that might indicate a problem. Here's how to perform a breast self-exam:

1. Pick a consistent time: Choose a time each month to perform your self-exam, ideally a few days after your period ends. If you no longer have a menstrual cycle, pick a day that's easy to remember, like the first of the month.

2. Gather supplies: You don't need any special tools, but it's helpful to have a mirror, a towel or pillow to place under one shoulder, and some lotion or oil for your fingers.

3. Stand in front of a mirror:

Visual inspection: Look at your breasts in the mirror with your arms at your sides. Check for any changes in size, shape, or contour. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes in the skin texture. Also, examine your nipples for any abnormalities like inversion, discharge, or redness.

Raise your arms: With your hands on your hips, raise your arms overhead. This helps you see any changes in the shape of your breasts.

4. Examine your breasts while lying down:

Lie down on your back on a flat surface like your bed.

Place a pillow or towel under your right shoulder, and raise your right arm behind your head. This helps to spread out the breast tissue.

Use the three middle fingers of your left hand to gently feel your right breast in a circular motion. Start from the outside and move in toward the nipple, using light, medium, and firm pressure. Follow an up-and-down pattern, covering the entire breast.

Check for lumps, thickening, or any unusual changes. Be sure to examine the entire breast, including the underarm area.

5. Repeat for the left breast:

Place a pillow or towel under your left shoulder and examine your left breast in the same way as you did the right.

6. Standing or sitting examination:

Finally, while standing or sitting, you can check your breasts again using the same circular motion with your three middle fingers.

7. Check your nipples:

Gently squeeze each nipple and check for any discharge or changes in texture.

If you notice any changes, lumps, or abnormalities during your self-exam, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it's crucial to have any changes assessed promptly.

Remember that a breast self-exam is just one part of breast health. Regular clinical breast exams by a healthcare provider and mammograms as recommended by your doctor are also essential for comprehensive breast health care.