How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination for Breast Cancer
Apr 22, 2019
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Jun
Introduction
First, perform visual inspection: while showering, examine the breast skin in a mirror for redness, swelling, or an orange-peel appearance, as well as any surface skin dimpling or nipple retraction.
During palpation, use your right hand to examine the left breast and your left hand to examine the right breast, systematically palpating the breast tissue in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
First, perform visual inspection: while showering, observe the breast skin in a mirror for signs of redness or swelling, “orange-peel” texture changes, skin dimpling, or nipple enlargement. Normally, the nipple points slightly downward; check for nipple deviation or retraction. Next, raise both arms and rotate your body; alternatively, place both hands on your waist and rotate your body. If a deep-seated breast mass is present, such movements may reveal asymmetry in breast contour—this constitutes the visual component of examination.
For palpation, use the right hand to examine the left breast and the left hand to examine the right breast. Systematically examine the breast in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Slightly flex the metacarpophalangeal joints and use the palmar surfaces (pads) of the four fingers to palpate with moderate, consistent pressure—neither too light nor too firm. During each pass, gently push and move the skin along with underlying subcutaneous tissue in small circular motions, beginning with larger concentric circles and progressively narrowing down to smaller ones for thorough coverage.
Continue palpation in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Repeat the examination within the innermost circle, and finally assess the nipple and areolar region.
