How to do a breast self-exam

A self-check at home won't sub in for the official medical screenings, but it's a fab, speedy little routine every lass should know. It’s all about getting chummy with your own chest and keeping an eye out for any pesky changes. So, this October, let’s all take a sec to champion this potentially life-saving habit.

One of the quickest ways to catch any chesty quirks is through a self-breast exam. While not every lump or bump means the C-word, spotting something off and having a healthcare pro give it the once-over means you can jump into action pronto. And, let's be real – if it turns out to be cancer, catching it early can mean better odds of recovery and less gnarly treatments.

Beyond playing detective for potential problems, giving yourself a regular checkup is a chance to really get to know your knockers. By keeping tabs on the regular, you can tell what's just your normal and what's a bit sus. Knowing your own body is mega important – it makes spotting even the tiniest changes a doddle.

A home check isn’t about ditching your mammograms, ultrasounds or other pro screenings – oh no, hun! It's more like their BFF. While mammograms might be an annual or bi-annual date in the diary (depending on age and risk), you can have a personal check-in with your chest every month. So, by mixing regular at-home check-ups with those doc appointments, you’re giving yourself the best shot at early detection.

First up, you'll want to pick the best time to do your self-exam. For the ladies who ride the monthly crimson wave, it’s a good shout to do your check a few days after your period wraps up. Your boobs are usually less swollen and tender then, making it easier to suss out anything unusual. For those who've waved goodbye to monthly cycles (hello, menopause, post-mastectomy, and the like), pick a set day each month for your check-in. That way, you keep it consistent.

Before diving in, make sure you’re in a well-lit spot – it’s all about seeing any changes or dodgy bits on the skin or breast shape clearly. Find a peaceful nook where you can focus without pesky interruptions. Slip into something easy to whip off, and keep a mirror close by.

And there you have it! It’s simple, swift, and super crucial.

Having a dedicated journal can be a handy way to track how your breasts change over the months. Jot down any shifts, even the teeny-tiny ones, along with the date you did the check. Over time, this will help you differentiate between regular changes linked to your menstrual cycle and ones that might need a doctor's gaze.

While the DIY boob check is fab for keeping tabs, nothing beats a professional opinion. Spotted a consistent quirk or anything that gives you the heebie-jeebies? Get yourself to a doc. Plus, having an annual meet-up with your gynaecologist for a clinical breast exam is a top-notch idea.

Some swelling, tenderness, or aches? Chances are they’re down to your monthly cycle. These tweaks usually play out in both breasts and bow out after your period. But a solid lump, skin dimpling, or any other persistent changes after Aunt Flo’s visit? That's when you should prick up your ears. When in doubt about any change, always better to seek some medical wisdom.