Breast Self- Examination or BSE is the first line of defense in being knowledgeable about your breasts and their health. It’s an action you can perform yourself which gives you a degree of control and peace of mind that you are aware of your breasts. When done correctly and regularly it can be a valuable tool in your breast health toolkit especially when paired with a mammogram, breast sonogram, clinical exam done by a doctor and or genetic testing.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports, “Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular routine of self-exam is important.” That is more than one third of all breast cancer! That is a substantial number and reinforces the mantra that early detection saves lives.
A BSE in its simplest form is a manual way to look at and touch your breast done by you in the privacy of your home once a month. Who should be doing Breast self-examinations? Basically, everyone should to help detect a mass/lump early on. When should you perform the BSE? For menstruating women, it should be done 3-5 days after the start of your menstrual cycle and for ladies who have started menopause on the same day each month.
Look at your breast in a mirror. Look for dimpling, lumps, discharge, or any asymmetries. Touch all portions of your breasts up and down and side to side using the palms of your three middle fingers. Execute this step laying down with your arm behind your head touching with your opposite hand or in the shower. Don’t forget to touch under your armpit and upper chest. It’s important to determine what is most comfortable for you.
If you feel or see anything irregular or new contact your doctor right away for follow up. At your next visit you can even ask your doctor to demonstrate a good BSE technique to you. Make it part of your monthly routine and educate other women in your life so they are aware of breast health, and they can perform BSE themselves. The stigma of touching oneself is an old antiquated concept that could cost you your life or someone you love! Remember early detection saves lives!
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