Breast Cancer

Today's Helpful Hints:  Self Breast Exam Guide   "I am going to give myself a monthly self breast exam and enjoy it!" ~ Queen Latifah   All joking aside, Breast Cancer is serious business. It does not care how old you are, and it does not care if you are a man or a woman. We are all at risk. It may feel funny to do our own breast exams on a regular basis, but early detection may save lives! I hope this guide will prove helpful. ~ Winivere

Just as your period ends (or at the same time each month if you do not have periods), check for any change in the normal look or feel of your breasts. Report any changes to your physician. Step 1: In Front of the Mirror Look for changes in the shape, size or appearance of your breasts. Look for dimpling, rash or puckering of the skin or nipple, nipple discharge or any  change from normal. Inspect your breasts in four steps: * Hold arms at your sides * Hold arms over your head * Press your hands on your hips to tighten your chest muscles * Bend forward with your hands on your hips   Step 2: Lying Down Feel for a hard lump, thickening or any change in your breast tissue. * Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder. * Use the pads of the three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast. * Press using light, medium and firm pressure in a circular motion. * Follow an up and down pattern. * Feel for changes in your breast, above and below your collarbone and in your armpit area. * Repeat on your left breast using your right hand. Note: These steps may be repeated while bathing or showering using soapy hands. ©