Breast awareness 5 point code:
- Know what is normal for you
- Look and feel
- Know what changes to look for
- Report any changes without delay
- Attend breast screening if aged 50 or over
These are the changes to look for and remember, if you are in any doubt….. visit your doctor!
- A lump or thickening which is different to the rest of the breast tissue
- Continuous pain in one part of the breast or armpit
- One breast becomes larger or lower
- A nipple becomes inverted or changes shape or position
- Skin changes including puckering or dimpling
- Swelling under the armpit or around the collarbone
- A rash on or around the nipple
- Discharge from one or both nipples
Understand how your breasts may change at different times during the month and as you get older.
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO EXAMINE YOUR BREASTS REGULARLY?
The importance of examining your breasts regularly makes you familiar with what is normal for YOUR body. When you are familiar with what is normal for your body, you will then be able to recognize any changes in YOUR breast tissue. By using The Breast self Examination Kit, it will help give you peace of mind each month. It is also recognized as a "touch enhancer" The Breast Chek Kit DOES increase the tactile sensitivity of the user and works like a magnifying glass for the fingertips. It comes with instructions and a handy check list. However, this is only one part of good breast health care. It is very important that you have regular clinical breast examinations and mammograms as advised by your doctor. Early detection does save lives and we encourage you to inform your friends and family members of the availability of this proven and important medical device designed for home use.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO EXAMINE YOUR BREASTS?
You should examine your breasts ONCE every month -
- A week after the last day of your period (less likely to have tender and swollen breasts)
- If periods are irregular or you do not get your periods, then the best time to examine your breasts is every month on the same day of the month. Choose a day that is easy to remember eg. your birthday or the first day of each month
The 3 components of a breast screening programme which are absolutely necessary:
- Breast Self Examination
- Regular Clinical breast examinations by your doctor.
- Mammograms
You also need to be made aware that there are some women who are genetically predisposed to lumpiness in their breasts. Any changes detected through your breast self examination must be reported to your doctor.
