Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign held in October to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, treatment, and support for those who have breast cancer.
One of the most crucial steps in early detection of breast cancer is self-examination.
In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of checking yourself for breast cancer, and the symptoms to look out for in order to help you to be proactive in monitoring your breast health.
Why Self-Examination Matters
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women worldwide, but it can affect anyone, regardless of gender.
Detecting breast cancer at an early stage significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and self-examinations are a crucial part of early detection.
How to Perform a Self-Breast Examination
Performing a self-breast examination is a simple and essential process that you can do at home by following the steps below.
Choose a Comfortable Location
Find a quiet and comfortable place where you can stand or sit. You may wish to use a mirror for a visual check.
Visual Examination
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Inspect your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or symmetry.
Look for any dimpling, puckering, or skin changes and check for any changes to the nipple, such as inversion or discharge.
Manual Examination
Raise your arms above your head and examine your breasts again.
Use the pads of your fingers to gently press down on your breast tissue, moving in a circular motion.
Cover the entire breast and move from the outside towards the centre. Pay attention to any lumps, knots, or thickened areas.
Don't forget to examine the lymph nodes in your armpits. Gently feel for any swollen or enlarged lymph nodes.
Then, lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder. Use your left hand to examine your right breast, using the same circular motion as before. Repeat the process for your left breast.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you notice any of the following changes during your self-examination, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional:
- New, persistent lumps or masses in the breast or armpit.
- Changes in breast size or shape.
- Skin changes, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.
- Nipple changes, including inversion or discharge.
- Persistent breast pain that does not go away.
It's important to remember that most breast changes are not cancerous, but any unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out any potential issues.
The importance of regular check-ups and mammograms
In addition to self-examination, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential. They can provide professional breast exams and recommend mammograms based on your age and risk factors.
Mammograms are powerful tools for early breast cancer detection and can identify abnormalities that may not be felt during a self-exam.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of breast health and early detection.
Remember, knowledge and awareness are powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer. If you think you may have experienced any changes to your breasts, do not hesitate in seeking advice from your healthcare provider.
In honour of World Breast Cancer Awareness month, McElhinneys will be hosting a Coffee Morning in support of Cancer Care West in the Old Finn Bistro in our store in Ballybofey, County Donegal.
Join us from 10.30am to 1.30pm on Friday, 13th October 2023, to show your support for this worthy cause.
Did you know you can also make a donation to Cancer Care West in-store? Visit any till point during the month of October to donate as little as €1.
For those who have experienced mastectomy surgery, McElhinneys offers expert mastectomy bra fitting services in our lingerie department.
For the month of October, anyone who books an appointment for our mastectomy bra fitting service in-store can avail of a free treatment of their choice in our Beauty Hall. For more information and to book an appointment, call McElhinneys on (074) 913 1217 today.
Until next time,
Hannah x
