We know you’ve heard this before, but don’t ignore it – do your monthly breast self-exams

Breast awareness and regular self-checks contribute to your overall breast health and well-being, says St. Joseph’s/Candler Surgical Oncologist Dr. Yana Puckett

How often do you examine your breasts? Do you know what they usually feel like?

Getting familiar with what’s normal for you can make a big difference. Even with advanced screening tools available, such as mammography and ultrasound, some breast cancers are first found through physical exams.

The American Cancer Society and our breast cancer specialists recommend paying attention to what your breasts look and feel like, and if you notice any changes, contact your healthcare provider.

“Breast awareness and regular self-checks are very important because they empower individuals to be proactive about their breast health,” says St. Joseph’s/Candler and Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion Surgical Oncologist Dr. Yana Puckett. Dr. Puckett specializes in treating breast and skin cancers.

“By becoming familiar with the look and feel of their breasts, people can quickly identify any changes, such as lumps, pain or skin abnormalities. Detecting these changes early increases the chances of identifying potential issues, including benign conditions or breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.”

What to watch for

You should report any of these visible changes to your breast to your provider:

• The skin of your breast dimples or puckers
• Swelling of part of your breast
• Redness or flaky skin on your nipple or breast
• Change in the size or shape of your breast
• Changes to a nipple, such as pushing inward instead of sticking out
• Fluid from the nipple (including blood) other than breast milk

Contact your provider if you feel any of these changes:

• A new lump or hard knot inside your breast or armpit
• An area that feels thick inside your breast
• Pain in your breast that doesn’t go away

Breast self-awareness helps you notice any changes that may lead to more serious health concerns. If you do notice a lump or change, don’t be alarmed. These signs don’t always mean you have breast cancer. There are common non-cancer breast conditions that can cause symptoms too. But the only way to find out for sure is by making an appointment with your provider to get checked.

“As a surgical oncologist, I recommend performing self-breast exams on a monthly basis,” Dr. Puckett says. “This allows you to become familiar with the texture and appearance of your breasts.”

If you are still menstruating, Dr. Puckett says it’s best to perform the exam a few days after your period ends when breast tissue is less likely to be swollen or tender. For women who are post-menopausal, she recommends choosing a specific day each month to consistently perform the exam.

“Remember that self-exams are just one part of comprehensive breast health,” Dr. Puckett says. “Regular clinical exams by a healthcare professional and mammograms as recommended based on age and risk factors are also essential components of maintaining breast health. If you notice any changes during your self-exams, don’t hesitate to consult a medical professional for further evaluation.”

Related Article: Where can I get a mammogram?