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Breast cancer is a fatal disease for many women, which is why physicians recommend patients follow a breast care regimen of routine mammograms and monthly breast self-exams. Early detection and treatment could save your life. To conduct a thorough breast self-exam at home, follow the below advice. 

3 Steps to Check Breasts for Abnormalities

1. Sit or Stand & Feel Breasts for Lumps

Lincoln-Nebraska-breast-careWhile standing in the shower or seated on a chair, use the fingers of each hand to gently massage your breasts from the outside to the center. While kneading the tissue, take note of sensitive areas as well as any lumps and tight knots you might feel. The abnormalities and tenderness could be caused by small, benign cysts, or more serious issues a gynecologist can diagnose with a professional breast care exam.  

2. Perform a Visual Inspection 

Next, stand in front of the mirror, naked from the waist up, and raise your right arm over your head. Look for raised areas in the skin of your right breast, as well as dimpling and outlines of lumps. You should also take note of unusual swelling, bruising, redness, and discharge from the nipple. After, raise the left arm and check the left breast for the same issues.   

3. Lay Down & Feel Breasts for Lumps

To conclude the breast self-exam, lay down on the couch or bed with your shirt and bra off. The tissue of each breast will flatten. With a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head, use the left hand to feel along the right breast all the way to the armpit. Use a circular motion to check for any hard spots in the tissue and pinch the nipple to feel for discharge. Do the same with the left breast.

 

If you discover any cause for concern from your at-home self-exam or are due for a routine mammogram, contact the breast care specialists at Women's Clinic of Lincoln, P.C. in Lincoln, NE. The OB-GYN providers use state-of-the-art equipment to perform surgical services and thorough testing. The caring staff will also provide advice to help curb anxiety while waiting for the results. To discuss breast care options available in Lancaster County, call (402) 434-3370 or visit the women’s clinic online for additional information. Become a Facebook follower or call (402) 441-0025 to learn about upcoming clinical research studies. 

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