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Ask A Doctor

Dr. Cynthia Drogula, medical director of The Aiello Breast Center at Baltimore Washington Medical Center, answers your questions about self breast exams.

Q: I know self breast exams are important, but how do I actually do one?

A: When examining your breasts, it is helpful to imagine a grid so that every part of the breast tissue is checked. Use the pads of your finger tips and a gentle but firm amount of pressure. Make note of where the lumpiest areas are. Don’t forget to check under the nipple and up into the armpit. It is best to check the breasts both while lying down in bed and when standing up as in the shower because lumps can become more apparent when you change position. Check for nipple discharge with a gentle squeeze. Finally, inspect the breasts in the mirror for dimples, swelling or rashes.

Q: How often should I perform a self breast exam?

A: Monthly. Self breast exams can be scheduled on your own time and in the privacy of your own home. Try to do the exam at the same time of your monthly cycle. Examine yourself seven to 10 days after the menstrual period starts because the breasts tend to be less tender and swollen at this time. Post-menopausal women can use a convenient date like the first of the month as a reminder to do their breast check. In this modern day and age, setting reminders on your PDA or computer can jog your memory.

Q: My breasts are always lumpy. Does this mean I could have breast cancer?

A: Probably not. Breast tissue is naturally lumpy, especially in younger women. Remember, the goal is not to diagnose your own lumps but to become familiar with what is normal for you! You should report any changes that you notice during a self breast exam, particularly if the change persists over a menstrual cycle. Never feel embarrassed to bring a concern to your doctor. This is exactly what we want you to do. A woman who finds her tumor at a small size is more likely to be a candidate for lumpectomy instead of mastectomy and may also be less likely to need chemotherapy as a part of her treatment.

Q: Do self breast exams really help detect breast cancer?

A: Yes. The detection of breast cancer has three main components – mammography, self breast exams and clinical breast exams by a physician. Many breast cancer survivors credit breast self exams for saving their lives and often share their stories in the hopes of helping other women. Since the physician’s breast exam and mammogram are recommended once a year for average risk women, the monthly self breast exam is an important way for women to monitor themselves throughout the year!