Breast Health: Mammograms

What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an xray test of a breast. It is used to diagnose and evaluate breast cancer. The breast is put between two plates and compressed. Women may feel slight discomfort, but it shouldn't be painful.

When should I get mammograms?
If you have a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer, women should start getting annual mammograms as early as age 30; otherwise women annual mammograms can begin at age 40.

It is also recommended to do a Breast Self Examination (BSE} monthly.

The Five Steps of a Breast Self-Exam - Breast Cancer.org
Step 1: Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.

Here's what you should look for:
* breasts that are their usual size, shape, and color
* breasts that are evenly shaped without visible distortion or swelling

If you see any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor's attention:
* dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin
* a nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of sticking out)
* redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

Step 2: Now, raise your arms and look for the same changes.
Breast Self Exam - Steps 2 and 3

Step 3: While you're at the mirror, gently squeeze each nipple between your finger and thumb and check for nipple discharge (this could be a milky or yellow fluid or blood).

Step 4: Next, feel your breasts while lying down, using your right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few fingers of your hand, keeping the fingers flat and together.

Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side—from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Follow a pattern to be sure that you cover the whole breast. You can begin at the nipple, moving in larger and larger circles until you reach the outer edge of the breast. You can also move your fingers up and down vertically, in rows, as if you were mowing a lawn. Be sure to feel all the breast tissue: just beneath your skin with a soft touch and down deeper with a firmer touch. Begin examining each area with a very soft touch, and then increase pressure so that you can feel the deeper tissue, down to your ribcage.

Step 5: Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in Step 4.

Click here to order a free waterproof Breast Self-Exam Shower Card.