At Grace Private, we understand life is busy. Whether you’re juggling kids, work or just everyday jobs, it’s not always easy to prioritise your health – but when it comes to checking your breasts, taking a few moments can make the world of difference.
Among many self-care practices, checking your breasts is a vital part of looking after your body. In this article we’ll explain why home breast checks are so important and how you can conduct self-examinations.
Home breast checks are a wonderful way to help you get to know your breasts and goes beyond the physical act. It helps you cultivate body awareness and confidence and encourages you to pay attention to your body, creating a deeper understanding of what is normal for you. Self-examinations empower you to become familiar with your breast tissue, which enables you to identify any changes over time.
Regular breast examinations allow you to detect any unusual lumps, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling or nipple discharge, which can be indicative of various conditions, including benign cysts or potentially early signs of breast cancer. By identifying these changes early you can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and a positive outcome.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHECK MY BREASTS?
Grace Private Specialist Women’s Health GPs recommend examining your breasts at least once a month. The best time to do this is around the same time in your menstrual cycle, as fluctuating hormones can affect your breasts.
HOW DO I CHECK MY BREASTS?
By regularly checking your breasts you will come to learn what is normal for you. Having a baseline will help you identify any changes that occur over time.
Look at your breasts: Stand in front of a mirror with your hands by your sides and observe the shape and appearance of your breasts and nipples. Raise your arms above your head and take another look to ensure you’ve seen them from all different angles.
Feel your breasts: Gently feel all areas of your breasts and nipples, feeling for anything different from your usual condition. Examine everywhere from your collarbone down to below your bra-line and under your armpits and feel for any lumps, changes in shape, skin rashes or irritations or pain.
Breast screening will help identify any subtle changes to your breasts that cannot be found by self-examination. If you’re younger than 40, mammograms generally aren’t recommended, however BreastScreen Australia provides free screening every two years for women 40 years to 75 years.
Private breast screening is available and can be organised by your Grace Private GP.
Firstly, don’t panic. It’s natural to feel concerned, but it’s important to remember that not all changes in your breasts indicate a serious condition. If you find something out of the ordinary, call your GP to make an appointment as soon as possible. They will be able to conduct a thorough examination and recommend the necessary steps you need to take.
At Grace Private, our Specialist Women’s Health GPs have the knowledge and experience to provide comprehensive care and support to help you manage the health of your breasts. They will examine your breasts and may recommend further testing to diagnose the changes you have discovered.
At Grace Private, we want to empower women to take charge of their health and we are here to support you every step of the way. Home breast checks should be an important part of your self-care routine, fostering familiarity and giving you the knowledge to detect any changes early.
By partnering with Grace Private’s Women’s Health GPs, you can ensure your health and well-being is a priority and you have an experienced, holistic healthcare team by your side. To book an appointment with one of our Gold Coast Women’s GPs, and further explore the importance of home breast checks, book online or call 07 5594 7632
