Should I regularly examine my own chest?
June 23, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Marie Czakaj
Dear Doctor,
My name is Elvira Stolzheim and I have a question regarding breast health. In the past, I have often read that it is important to regularly self-examine the breasts to detect any changes or abnormalities early on. I am 35 years old and have not performed regular self-examinations in the past.
Recently, however, I have been experiencing increased concerns and uncertainties regarding my breast health. I have occasionally felt slight pain or hardness in my breasts, which worry me. There have also been cases of breast cancer in my family, which further intensifies my fears.
My question to you as a gynecologist is therefore: Should I regularly self-examine my breasts to detect possible changes early on? How exactly should I proceed and what should I pay particular attention to? Are there specific signs or symptoms that I should be particularly aware of?
I would greatly appreciate your professional assessment and recommendations to alleviate my concerns and protect my breast health as best as possible. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Elvira Stolzheim
Dear Elvira Stolzheim,
Thank you for your question regarding breast health. It is very important to regularly self-examine your breasts to detect changes or abnormalities early. Especially in the case of a family history of breast cancer, it is crucial to pay attention to the health of your breasts.
Self-examining your breasts can help you detect changes such as lumps, swelling, or hardening early. It is recommended to perform the examination once a month after the end of your menstruation, as the breasts are least sensitive at this time. If you no longer menstruate, you can choose a specific day each month to perform the self-examination.
To self-examine your breasts, follow these steps: Stand in front of a mirror and check for external changes such as deformities, redness, or skin indentations in your breasts. Then raise one arm above your head and use the flat of your hand to palpate the breast in circular motions, starting from the outer edge towards the center. Pay attention to any possible lumps or hardness. Repeat this process for the other breast.
During the self-examination, be particularly alert for the following signs or symptoms: lumps or hardness in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, unusual pain, swelling, redness, skin indentations, or discharge from the nipple. If you notice any of these changes, it is important to promptly consult a doctor for further evaluation.
It is important to regularly self-examine, as well as undergo regular check-ups with your gynecologist. There, additional tests such as mammography or ultrasound can be performed to monitor breast health.
I hope my information helps you protect your breast health to the best of your ability and alleviate your concerns. Please do not hesitate to consult a doctor for any further questions or uncertainties. Your health is paramount.
Best regards,
Marie Czakaj
