It’s October and the time has come back around to acknowledge the brave women that have lost their lives to Breast Cancer. According to the CDC, In 2017 over 250,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported among women in the United States. Around 42,000 women die from this aggressive disease. For all women, breast cancer awareness is critical as we continue to educate others on the importance of early detection through self-examination and mammograms. Early detection makes room for a higher survival rate after treatment. Mammograms are the most efficient way to detect breast cancer in its early stages, making it easier to treat. Before getting a mammogram, it is recommended to check your breast often for changes in color, shape and texture. Step by step here are ways that OB/GYN experts suggest how to perform a self breast exam.
Step 1
First you are going to stand up straight with your arms to your side and look at your breast in the mirror. You are looking for changes in swelling, small or striking deformities and changes in size and shape. According to Healthline, changes in thickness and the skin color of your breast could be a potential sign of breast cancer. If you notice the skin dimpling similar to that of an orange peel, bulging, puckering, or if the nipple appears inverted consult your local women’s health specialist for an appointment.
Step 2
Next raise your arms over your head and continue to search for changes in the breast. If you notice once you raise your arms up, there is pain or a change in shape or texture that is a sure sign to consult your doctor for a check up.
Step 3
OB/GYN women’s health professionals suggest that lastly it’s incredibly important to see if there is any discharge coming from the nipple other than breast milk. This includes discharge of blood. If you suspect there is discharge, call your doctor immediately.
Step 4
Now it’s time to feel your breast while lying down with your fingers flat, gently feeling around in the breast tissue for any lumps. Search the breast region to its entirety, from the collar bone to your chest, into the breast and under the armpit. If anything feels irregular contact your physician immediately.
Step 5
The last part of the self-examination requires you to analyze the breast while they are wet in the shower. In the same manner, gently feel around the entire breast region for any lumps or texture changes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, call your local women’s health specialist for an appointment.
How Can I Lower My Risk?
There are things you can do to lower your risk of developing breast cancer. It is suggested to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Limiting the amount of alcohol that you consume also helps to significantly lower the risk of breast cancer. The CDC suggests talking to your doctor about the risk of taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills and to breastfeed your children if possible.
Justice For My Jewel Campaign
Thank you for supporting our Justice For My Jewel campaign dedicated to educating women on maintaining not only a healthy menstrual cycle but a healthy lifestyle. Continue to support our women’s health initiative by purchasing one of our pink Justice For My Jewel T-shirts in honor of breast cancer awareness. Protect the most precious Jewel in the world, You!
Purchase our pink Justice For My Jewel T-Shirt Here.
Featured photo by Shutterstock