Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. The good news is that early detection saves lives — and one of the simplest ways to achieve that is by regularly performing Breast Self-Examination (BSE).

Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar, Breast Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgeon, emphasizes that self-awareness is the first step in breast health. Regular BSE helps women become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, making it easier to notice any unusual changes that need medical attention.

Why Breast Self-Examination Matters

A breast self-exam is a simple, cost-free method that can be done at home in just a few minutes. It is not a substitute for mammograms or clinical exams, but it complements them by promoting early recognition of abnormalities.

Early detection allows for:

• Timely diagnosis and treatment
• Less invasive surgical options
• Better long-term outcomes
• Increased survival rates

Many women who have found breast lumps themselves did so through consistent self-examination. While not every lump means cancer, noticing changes early always leads to better evaluation and management.

When Should You Perform Breast Self-Examination?

The ideal time for a BSE depends on your menstrual cycle:

• For menstruating women: Perform the exam 5–7 days after your period ends, when breasts are least tender or swollen.
• For postmenopausal women: Choose a fixed date each month — for instance, the first day of every month — to maintain regularity.
• For pregnant or breastfeeding women: Breast tissue changes during pregnancy and lactation; your doctor can guide you on safe examination techniques.

Consistency is key. Performing BSE at the same time each month helps you recognize what is normal for your body.

How To Do A Breast Self-Examination – Step By Step

Performing BSE involves three main steps — Look, Feel, and Check.

1. Look – Visual Inspection

• Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms at your hips.
• Observe the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts.
• Check for any visible changes such as:
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Changes in nipple position
• Redness, swelling, or rash
• Discharge from the nipple
• Now, raise your arms overhead and look for the same changes. Repeat the observation while gently pressing your palms on your hips to tighten the chest muscles.

2. Feel – Manual Examination

• Lie down on your back and use your right hand to examine your left breast, then switch sides.
• Use the pads of your fingers, not the tips.
• Move your fingers in a circular motion around the entire breast, covering from the collarbone to the top of your abdomen and from the armpit to the cleavage.

Apply different levels of pressure

• Light pressure for tissue close to the skin.
• Medium pressure for tissue in the middle of the breast.
• Firm pressure for deep tissue near the chest wall.

You can also perform this step while in the shower, as wet skin makes it easier to glide your fingers over the breast surface.

3. Check – Underarm Area

Examine the underarm (axillary) area gently, as breast tissue extends here. Swelling or lumps in this region could indicate lymph node involvement.

What To Look For

During your monthly BSE, watch for:

• A new lump or thickened area
• Change in breast size or shape
• Skin dimpling, puckering, or redness
• Pain or tenderness that persists
• Nipple retraction or discharge
• Swelling in the armpit area

If any of these changes persist beyond your menstrual cycle, schedule an appointment with your doctor for further evaluation.

Common Myths About Breast Self-Examination

Myth 1: “If I do self-exams, I don’t need mammograms.”

Fact: Self-exams are only one part of breast health. Mammograms detect deeper tissue changes that you can’t feel.

Myth 2: “Breast cancer always causes pain.”

Fact: Early breast cancer is usually painless. Waiting for pain to appear can delay diagnosis.

Myth 3: “I’m too young to worry about breast cancer.”

Fact: Although the risk increases with age, breast cancer can occur in younger women too — especially those with a family history.

Myth 4: “A lump always means cancer.”

Fact: Most lumps are benign (non-cancerous). However, any persistent lump should be checked by a doctor.

Integrating Self-Examination Into Routine Health

Make BSE a part of your monthly self-care routine — just like brushing or exercising. You can even set a reminder on your phone or mark your calendar to ensure regularity.

Also, remember:

• Continue with annual clinical breast exams by a doctor.
• Discuss mammography screening timelines based on your age and risk factors.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle — eat well, exercise, limit alcohol, and avoid smoking — as these factors also reduce breast cancer risk.

FAQs On Breast Self-Examination

1. At what age should I start doing breast self-examinations?

Most experts recommend starting BSE in your 20s to develop self-awareness early.

2.How long should a self-exam take?

It usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes to complete a thorough examination.

3. Should I do it more than once a month?

Once a month is enough, but consistency is vital. Doing it too frequently may make it harder to notice gradual changes.

4. Can men do breast self-exams?

Yes. Though rare, men can develop breast cancer, and self-exams help in early detection.

5. What should I do if I find a lump?

Don’t panic. Many lumps are harmless cysts or benign growths. However, it’s essential to consult your doctor promptly for an accurate diagnosis.

Expert Guidance By Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar

Being proactive about breast health can make a life-changing difference. Regular self-examinations, combined with professional checkups and healthy lifestyle habits, empower women to take charge of their well-being.

Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar, an expert in Breast Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery, encourages every woman to make breast awareness a lifelong habit. Her approach blends compassion with advanced surgical expertise to ensure the best outcomes for breast health and cancer care.

Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar Today

Stay one step ahead — because early detection truly saves lives.