1. Breast Self Exam
Why do I need to do a self breast exam?
Although breast cancer is mainly found in women over age 50, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women in the United States. As stated in Maternal-Newborn Nursing, "Monthly self breast exams have been shown to be the most effective method for early detection of breast cancer. Approximately 75% of breast lumps are found by women themselves" (Olds, 1996, p. 228). Early detection is associated with a better prognosis. Therefore, it is important for women to start regular self breast exams once they reach age 20, as recommended by the American Cancer Society (ACS). Regular exams allow a women to notice any changes that occur, all of which should be discussed with a health care professional. Also, between the ages of 20 and 39 the ACS recommends a clinical breast examinations by a health professional every 3 years. This is normally included in a yearly visit with a Pap smear.
|
How can I do a self breast exam?
Self breast exams should be done monthly, about a week after your period ends or if you are on oral contraceptives, the day you start a new pack of pills. For detailed instructions with pictures for guidance, that make it easy to perform a self breast exam please click here. |
|
2. Clinical Breast Exam
A breast examination by a health professional (such as your doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner or physician assistant) is an important part of routine physical checkups.
How Often Should I Have a Clinical Breast Exam?
You should have a clinical exam at least every three years starting at age 20 and every year starting at age 40. A clinical breast exam may be recommended more frequently if you have a strong family history of breast cancer.
When Should I Schedule a Clinical Breast Exam?
Breast exams are best performed soon after your menstrual period ends, because your breasts will not be as tender and swollen as during your period. This makes it easier to detect any unusual changes. If you have stopped menstruating, schedule the yearly exam on a day that's easy for you to remember, such as your birth date.
What Happens During a Breast Physical Exam?
Your healthcare provider will ask you detailed questions about your health history, including your menstrual and pregnancy history. Questions might include what age you started menstruating, if you have children and how old you were when your first child was born. A thorough breast exam will be performed. For the exam, you undress from the waist up. Your healthcare provider will look at your breasts for changes in size or shape. Your provider may ask you to lift your arms over your head, put your hands on your hips or lean forward. He or she will examine your breasts for any skin changes including rashes, dimpling or redness. This is a good time to learn how to do a breast self-exam if you don't already know how. As you lay on your back with your arms behind your head, your healthcare provider will examine your breasts with the pads of the fingers to detect lumps or other changes. The area under both arms will also be examined. Your healthcare provider will gently press around your nipple to check for any discharge. If there is discharge, a sample may be collected for examination under a microscope.
3. Mammograms
Why should I get a Mammogram?
Mammograms save lives. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It is a quick, easy test that can find breast cancer early, when it is too small to be felt. If breast cancer is found ealrly enough, the chances of surviving are excelent.
How often should I have a mammogram?
If you are age 40 or older, you should have a mammogram once a year for the rest of your life. If you have family history of breast cancer (mother, grandmother, sister, aunt) you should start having mammograms at the age of 35.
I don't have medical insurance can I still get a mammogram?
If you cannot pay for a mammogram or do not have medical insurance, call your local health department to see if you qualify for a low-cost/no-cost mammogram. Women who qualify for a low-cost mammogram in Jessamine County can receive a low-cost/no-cost mammogram at the
Jessamine County Health Department. Call 859-885-4149 for an appointment.
