Correct method and technique for self-examining breasts
Dec 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Chao
Introduction
Breast self-examination can be performed before going to bed at night or during a shower. First, visually inspect the breasts for normal shape and size. Then, while standing, use the four fingers held together to press the breast tissue in a counterclockwise direction, checking for any lumps. Next, gently squeeze the nipples to check for any discharge. For greater accuracy, it is recommended to repeat the self-examination while lying down, as this position increases detection accuracy.
Breast self-examination can be performed before going to bed at night or during a shower. The correct method is as follows:
1. First, visually inspect the breasts for any protrusions or indentations, check whether both sides are symmetrical, observe the condition of the chest skin, and examine the color of the nipples and the condition of the skin around them.
2. While standing, touch your chest by placing the four fingers of your hand together on the breast. Gently press in sequence over the outer-upper, inner-upper, inner-lower, outer-lower areas, and under the armpit, checking for any lumps.
3. Gently squeeze the nipple to see if there is any discharge, such as milk.
4. Then lie flat on your back and again place the four fingers of your hand together on the breast. Gently press in the same sequence—outer-upper, inner-upper, inner-lower, outer-lower, and under the armpit—and feel whether the breast tissue is soft or if there are any lumps.
Precautions: If you notice nipple retraction, visible indentation or protrusion, redness, swelling, warmth, pain in the skin, detectable lumps in the breast, or abnormal nipple discharge (including unusual fluid when squeezing), seek medical attention promptly at a qualified hospital.
Breast massage and duct clearance should only be performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
