A Touch of Self-Care

Dr. Rajanigandha Tudu

A pivotal step in detecting breast cancer early lies in empowering women with information to recognize and address any irregularities in their breasts through regular self-examinations. Lumps can be the initial sign of breast cancer and can be easily detected through a self-breast exam. While not all lumps are cancerous, it is essential to rule out the possibility through clinical screening.

Consistency Check: Feel for the general size and shape consistency of both breasts. Skin Examination: Look for puckering or dimpling on the skin. Nipple Inspection: Inspect for any discharge from the nipples.

Here’s how you can self-examine your breasts:

Step 1: Use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) and apply varying pressure – light, medium, firm – to feel the breast tissues.

Step 2: Place your right hand on the back of your head and use the three middle fingers of your left hand to gently press down on the right breast.

Step 3: Start navigating at the outer edges of your breast and move in a circular motion toward the nipple. Cover the entire breast in this motion and then move from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen.

Step 4: Feel the breast tissue for any abnormalities – lumps, thickening, or changes in texture.

Step 5: Gently squeeze the nipple to check for discharge and check for changes in the appearance or direction of the nipples Step 6: Repeat the process for the left breast.

Remember, every conversation and every self-examination have the potential to be lifesaving.