Understanding The Importance Of Regular Breast Self-Exams; Experts Share Tips On How To Perform Them 

It is absolutely pivotal for women to constantly self-examine their breasts to check for lumps or any sort of abnormalities in the breasts. While routine mammography screenings are recommended annually, some tumours can develop between screenings. Therefore, performing regular breast self-examinations, ideally starting within the first six days of the menstrual cycle, is essential to identify lumps, which can often be around two to three centimetres in size, before they become symptomatic.

Dr. Tushar Patil, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncologist, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, says, “The ideal frequency for self-examination is during the first week of one’s menstrual cycle when breast tenderness is usually less pronounced. There are multiple instructional videos available to guide women in performing this examination correctly.”

He further added, “A breast examination should begin in front of a mirror. The first step is to visually inspect the breasts, looking for any abnormalities such as changes in nipple position, abnormal thickening, or redness. The second method involves palpation, where a woman should use the palm of her hand to carefully feel her breasts. Various palpation techniques are available, and these can be better understood by watching instructional videos. It is advisable to perform this examination monthly.”

It is important to note that breast self-examination is particularly crucial for women who are not eligible for mammography, such as women under 40 years of age for whom mammograms are not recommended. While self-examination has a probability of detecting potential issues, mammography is the preferred screening tool, but it cannot be performed frequently. Mammography is usually recommended for women aged 40 and above, and it should be conducted annually.

Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director, Cancer Care / Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, shared a few tips on how to perform self-breast examinations perfectly, he pointed out, “Perform self-exam at the same time each month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period. If you’re post-menopausal, choose a specific date each month.”

“Begin by standing in front of a mirror. Look at your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Pay attention to any dimpling, puckering, or redness. Raise your arms over your head and check for the same changes as in step 2. Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand behind your head. Use your left hand to examine your right breast. Use the pads of your three middle fingers, not the tips, and move them in small circular motions. Cover the entire breast area, moving from the outside to the centre. Check for any lumps, knots, or thickening,” he added.

Talking about nipple examination, he said, “Gently squeeze your nipple and check for any discharge, lumps, or changes in shape or direction.”

If you notice any changes or abnormalities during your self-exam, such as a lump, thickening, or nipple discharge, consult your healthcare provider. Most breast lumps are not cancer, but it’s crucial to have any changes evaluated by a professional.