Self-Examination Methods for Breast Diseases
Married women should perform self-examinations 7–10 days after menstruation, when the breast tissue is softest and thinnest, making lesions easier to detect. For self-examination, stand or sit facing a large mirror, fully exposed. Place hands on hips or cross arms behind the neck; when the back extends, changes in skin indentation are easier to spot. Breast disease may cause nipple retraction, inversion, or elevation. Squeezing the breast may result in bloody, brownish, dark red, or pale yellow discharge. The skin of the nipple and areola may show scaling, redness, or erosion. The two breasts may differ in size. Finally, use the opposite hand to examine the axillary and supraclavicular lymph nodes for enlargement. Any abnormalities should prompt immediate medical evaluation to avoid overlooking potential risks for breast cancer.
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