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Self Breast Examination |
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Self breast examination is a regular inspection by a woman for abnormalities in her breast. Every physician argues that each woman should examine her breasts monthly to help detect breast lumps (potential cancer at early stages). Self examination and mammography can reduce deaths from breast cancer. Most of the women find BSE easier by going to their clinician, who demonstrates it to them. The best time to do a BSE for a premenopausal woman is right after the monthly menstrual period, when breasts are less tender and lumpy. Women who no longer menstruate, or are pregnant, or menstruate irregularly can choose a specific date to perform the exam each month. Self breast examination usually starts with an inspection in the mirror in which breasts are checked for any changes from previous appearance. Changes such as size, shape or symmetry, sores or scaling in the areola or nipple, dimpling or discoloration is what a woman must look for. Women should rise the hands above the head, which helps to reveal changes in contour, and place hands on the hips with shoulders forward, which help show any dimpling. Next step is to check for lumps. Thickening is better to perform standing in the shower or bath when the breasts are soapy or wet. For checking the right breast, the woman must raise her right arm above her head and gently use the left hand, fingers flat and pressed together tightly to make a tiny circling motion into the very top of the breast. Fingers should then slide slightly clockwise while repeating the tiny circling motion. This process must continue until the entire outside of the breast has been examined. Some women find it helps to place a small pillow or folded towel under the shoulder on the side being examined. If a woman detect a lump herself, it is very important to have a doctor evaluate it.
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| Category |
Women's Health
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| Related Searches |
breast cancer self examination, clinical breast examination |
| Date Submitted |
26-Jul-2005
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