Women’s health care is essential, and one of the most important tools for prevention is breast self-examination. This simple procedure, which you can do in the comfort of your home, is a first step toward the early detection of possible abnormalities that could indicate a health problem, such as breast cancer. Below, we explain how to perform it correctly and why incorporating this habit into your monthly routine is so important.
What Is a Breast Self-Examination?
Breast self-examination is a method that allows women to feel and observe any changes in their breasts. It involves visually and manually checking both breasts for lumps, hardening, or any irregularities. While self-examination does not replace medical studies such as mammograms or breast ultrasounds, it is a valuable tool for getting to know your body and detecting any warning signs early.
Why Is It Important to Perform It?
Early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. Studies show that most breast cancer cases detected early have a much higher cure rate. Performing regular breast self-exams will help you stay alert to changes in your breasts and seek medical help if you notice anything unusual.
Additionally, through self-examination, women can become familiar with the appearance and texture of their breasts, making it easier to identify changes. If you detect a lump or any other irregularity, it is recommended that you see your doctor for a more detailed evaluation.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination?
Performing a self-exam is simple and only takes a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it correctly:
In Front of a Mirror:
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides and observe your breasts. Look for any changes in size, shape, or symmetry. Also, check for any skin irregularities, such as dimpling or retractions.
Then, raise your arms above your head and check again for any changes in the skin or contour of your breasts.
Palpation While Standing or Sitting:
Raise your left arm and use your right hand to feel your left breast with your fingertips. Make circular movements starting from the outer breast and moving toward the center. Apply different levels of pressure to detect any lumps or hardened areas.
Repeat the procedure on your right breast.
Palpation While Lying Down:
Lie on your back and place a pillow under your left shoulder, raising your left arm behind your head. Using your right hand, repeat the palpation on your left breast.
Repeat on the right side.
Examine the Underarm Area:
Gently feel the areas near your armpit, as abnormalities may appear in the lymph nodes.
What to Do If You Detect Something Unusual?
It is normal for your breasts to change slightly during the menstrual cycle, but if you notice a hard lump, visible skin changes, persistent pain, or unusual nipple discharge outside of breastfeeding, see a doctor as soon as possible. A specialist may recommend a mammogram or breast ultrasound for a more detailed evaluation.
Self-Examination Is Only Part of Comprehensive Care
While self-examination is a fundamental practice, it is important to complement it with regular medical checkups. For women over 40, an annual mammogram is a crucial tool for the early detection of breast cancer. At Centrolab, we offer private mammograms for $115,000 COP, with no medical order required for women over 40. Additionally, for women under 40, we recommend our breast ultrasound service for $82,000 COP.
Conclusion
Incorporating breast self-examinations into your monthly routine can make a significant difference in your health. Do not underestimate the power of knowing your body and being aware of changes. Early detection can save lives, and combining self-examination with regular medical studies is the best way to take care of your well-being. Don’t wait any longer! Perform your self-exam and schedule a mammogram or breast ultrasound at Centrolab for a complete evaluation.
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