The C word.

INFO ON SELF BREAST EXAMS AND DIFFERENT KINDS OF BREAST CANCERS 

SELF BREAST EXAM Here is a link on a more detailed self breast exam.

TYPES OF BREAST CANCER This link lists out different kinds of cancers. I have Inflammatory Breast Cancer if you want to read on that. It came on quick and I will tell you what started as some redness on the bottom side of my chest is now covering the entire thing. 

I'll be honest, I have not checked my breasts regularly for changes because for the last 9 years I have consistently been pregnant or breastfeeding. There was very little time that one of those things wasn't happening. SO my breasts were constantly changing. I didn't think much of it as far as cancer goes. I have been so educated now and I am aware breast cancer can even reveal itself DURING pregnancy. SO we really should always be paying attention to our bodies in this way. 

Performing a breast self-exam is an important way to be proactive about breast health. Regular breast self-exams can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally feel, making it easier to notice changes. Please don’t forget to combine self-exams with regular check-ups and screenings.

When to Do a Breast Exam:

1. Monthly! It’s best to perform a breast self-exam once a month. For most people, the best time is a few days after your period ends when breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender. If you don’t have periods (due to menopause, surgery, etc.), choose a consistent day each month, like the first of the month.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

1. Although important, it's not just about the touch. Look at yourself in the mirror! Look at your breasts for any size, shape, or color changes. Dimpling in the skin is especially important to pay attention to. Raise your arms above your head and check for other changes. 

2. Lay down and feel around with your arm above your head. Feel into your armpits (lymph nodes) as well. During my ultrasound they found abnormal lymph nodes that I hadn't even seen. However it has now quickly grown to a mass others can see through my shirt. Anyway, use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) and press down lightly. Work in a circular motion, covering the entire breast from top to bottom and side to side. Just be sure to cover the whole area. 

3. Start with light pressure for surface tissue, then medium pressure for the middle tissue, and firm pressure for deeper tissues.

Remember most lumps are benign, but any new changes should be monitored and checked by a doctor.
*Have a clinical breast exam by a healthcare provider at least every 1-3 years if you’re in your 20s or 30s, and annually starting at age 40. Not having a family history of this does NOT mean you are in the clear.  Being pregnant and breastfeeding does NOT mean you are in the clear. 
- Mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 or 50, depending on your risk factors—discuss with your doctor.

Call your doctor if you notice:
- A new lump or mass
- Changes in the shape or contour of your breast
- Skin changes (redness, swelling, dimpling)
- Nipple changes (discharge (I had blood coming out of mine), inversion, hardness)
- Persistent pain in one breast that doesn’t go away

Thank you all so much for following along with this blog. Now go check your ta-ta's!!!!!!!