Breast Awareness
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women in the UK with roughly 1 in 8 women are diagnosed during their lifetime. So as well as getting good fitting bras, it's also extremely important to know and check your breasts regularly through a mammography and self examination for any unusual changes related to breast cancer. There is no wrong or right way to check your breasts, but just get used to feeling and looking at your breasts right up to your collarbone and armpits.
For more information on Breast Cancer, please visit the NHS website >
How to Regularly Check your Breasts
It is always recommended to examine your breasts for any unusual changes. We advise to check them at least once a month after your period. These easy self-examination steps help provide one form of early detection. They are easy to do and should take about 10 minutes. If you discover anything unusual, make sure you check it with your local doctor.
Self Examination
Step 1: In the mirror - Stand with your shoulders straight and arms by your hips. Look for any visual changes in your breasts. Make sure your breasts are their usual colour, shape and size.
Look out for:
Dimpling, puckering or bulging of the skin;
- Any redness from rashes and swelling;
- Any changes in the nipples, such as the position or inverted nipples.
- A change in size or shape of breasts.
- Any lumps or swelling in either armpit.
- Any discharge from either nipple.
Step 2: Repeat step one with your arms raised, your hands on your hips and then bending forward.
Step 3: Lying down - Lie on your back and use your three middle fingers to feel each breast using a circular motion. Use a smooth but firm touch, feeling from the top of your abdomen, to your armpits and cleavage. Make sure you cover the whole of the breasts, feeling for any small lumps and changes in texture.
Step 4: This step can be done either by looking in the mirror or lying down. Gently squeeze the nipples, checking for any discharge, bleeding, cracking or change of shape.
Step 5: In the shower - Many women find it easier to feel their breasts whilst their skin is wet. Using the same technique in step 3, check the whole area of your breasts, feeling for lumps above and below your collarbone and around the armpits.
Anyone with breast care questions or concerns can call the Breast Cancer Care helpline on 0808 800 6000 or visit their website www.breastcancercare.org.uk.