How to do a breast self-examination

Early detection save lives!

Taking a few minutes to do a breast self-exam a minimum of once a month can make a lifetime of difference. Nearly 70% of all breast cancers are found through self-exams and with early detection the 5-year survival rate is 98%. If you find a lump, schedule an appointment with your doctor, but don’t panic out of 10 lumps are not cancerous. For additional peace of mind, call your doctor whenever you have concerns.

Now, 1 in 23 Japanese women get breast cancer!!! Incredibly high percentage. And among advanced countries, the number is only increasing in Japan!

If you remember how your breast from month to month, you will be able to notice even a small change. Early detection is key to breast cancer survival. My mother survived, many of my friends as well. I want to make sure you will as well, because I care about you.

HOW TO DO A BREAST SELF-EXAM

In the Shower

Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast. Use your right hand to examine the left breast, left hand for the right breast. Check for any lump, hard knot, or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts.

Before a Mirror

Inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead.

Look for any changes in the contour of each breast, a swelling, a dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Then rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly matchfew women’s breasts do.

Lying Down

Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head. With the fingers of your left hand flat, press your right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast.

Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.

Breast Cancer Signs & SYMPTOMS

Generally, early breast cancer does not cause pain. Even so, a woman should see her health care provider about breast pain or any other breast cancer symptoms that do not go away. Common signs & symptoms of breast cancer include:

A change in how the breast or nipple feels You may experience nipple tenderness or notice a lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area. A change in how the breast or nipple looks This could mean a change in the size or shape of the breast or a nipple that is turned slightly inward. In addition, the skin of the breast, aureole or nipple may appear scaly, red or swollen or may have ridges or pitting that resembles the skin of an orange. Nipple discharge

You must see this website CLICK HERE!

http://allabout.co.jp/health/womenshealth/closeup/CU20040725A/index.htm

And to the beautiful women who are suffering right now, do not give up, believe in being well again. Challenges are opportunities to find out who we are, you are soon to discover the incredible strength that is inside of you.

I am thinking of you, you will be fine.

All my love, Ines