A Monthly Breast Self-Check Reminder
Fixing a date each month, a few days after your period, to look at and feel the breasts and noting any change to show a doctor. An awareness habit; any lump or change needs a doctor.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
Know what is normal for you
Breast awareness means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel so that you notice a change early. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a good time to start. A fixed date each month makes the habit easy.
Look in a mirror, then gently feel the breasts and underarms with the pads of your fingers. Write down any change and show it to a doctor. This is an awareness habit and not a diagnosis or test.
Ingredients
- A calendar with the date circled
- A mirror
- A notebook
How to prepare
- Pick a date a few days after your period ends.
- Set a phone reminder.
How to use
- Look and gently feel your breasts once a month.
- Note anything new.
Helpful habits
- Do it in a warm shower or lying down.
- Do not panic if you find something; see a doctor.
Precautions
- Any lump, nipple discharge, skin change or pain needs a doctor promptly.
- Self-check does not replace screening advised by your doctor.
- An awareness habit, not a test.
Frequently asked questions
Is self-check enough?
- No, follow your doctor's screening advice as well.
What about after menopause?
- Pick a fixed date monthly.
Are most lumps cancer?
- Many are not, but get them checked.
