Breast awareness
It’s important that you are aware of the normal look and feel of your breasts. Getting to know what is normal for you will help you recognise new or unusual breast changes. If you do notice any new or unusual changes in your breast see your doctor as soon as possible.
Breast awareness means looking at your breasts and feeling them regularly, maybe while you’re showering or dressing. This should only take a few minutes. You don’t have to use any special method or do it at any particular time of the month (although some women prefer to do it after their menstrual period when their breasts are less lumpy and less tender). Some women prefer to use a structured approach for the examination of their breasts.
Although there’s no ‘right way’ to check your breasts, you might find the following tips helpful.
- Look at your breasts and nipples in the mirror
and check for:
- a change in the size or shape of your breast or nipple
- a change in the skin over your breast such as redness or dimpling
- a nipple discharge
- Feel your breasts, remembering to feel up to
your collarbone, below your bra-line and under your armpit and
check for:
- a new lump or lumpiness especially if it is in one breast
- You should also report any unusual persistent pain, especially if it is in one breast.
Should you be having regular screening mammograms?
Regular screening mammograms are not recommended for you. Younger women have denser breasts than older women. This means that the effectiveness of the mammogram in finding breast cancer early is greatly reduced. Generally, breasts become less dense as women get older, particularly after the menopause.
Mammograms are X-rays of the breast. They are used to look for signs of breast cancer. Mammograms are used to investigate breast changes.
They are also used to look for signs of breast cancer in women who do not have breast changes. This is called a ‘screening mammogram’.
Should your doctor be checking your breasts?
There is no clear evidence to encourage or discourage women from having their breasts examined regularly by their doctor. You might benefit from having your breasts checked regularly by your doctor, particularly if you are unsure about what is ‘normal’ for you. Talk to your doctor and make a decision based on your own preference and situation.
