Breast Awareness and Screening

What is breast awareness?

Breast awareness means being informed about breast conditions (from cancer to harmless cysts), and becoming familiar with your breasts and how they appear and feel at different times of the month. It means that you can detect unusual changes in your breasts as early as possible, which may make treatment, if it is needed, simpler and more successful.

What changes should I be aware of?

It is important to remember that each woman’s breasts are different and that they change in appearance and feel because of age, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the menopause and taking the contraceptive pill.

Things which may not be normal are:

changes in skin colour or texture;

changes in the shape or contour of your breast(s) or unusual flattening or swelling;

dimpling, puckering, crusting or a rash on the skin, especially around the nipple;

any change in the position of the nipple
– pulled in or pointing to the side;

new lumps or changes in the size of existing lumps;

any fluid or discharge from the nipple;

veins which stand out more than unsual;

any changes in sensation, especially if

in one breast only..

When should I examine my breasts?

You may find it most convenient to look at your breasts when preparing for a bath or shower. It is easiest to feel them with a soapy hand since this slides easily over the breasts. For women with larger breasts it may be more comfortable to feel them when lying on the bed, in which case you may like to apply skin lotions or moisturiser to help your hand glide over your breasts.

What is the correct technique for breast self-examination?

You need to look at each of your breasts in turn, and also feel them both. Look at them by standing in front of a mirror with your arms to your sides. Raise your arms above your head and look again. Place your hands on your hips, and lean slightly towards the mirror, pulling your elbows and shoulders forwards, to flex your chest muscles. Look at both breasts again. Remember to consider your breasts from every angle - from the sides and below, and when leaning forwards.

Now feel your breasts gently but firmly, without squeezing or prodding them. Keep your hand flat, with the fingers together, and move your fingers over each whole breast in turn. You should find it easier to use the right hand to feel the left breast and vice versa. Feel every part of the breast, including up towards the collarbone, into the armpit and behind the nipple.



What happens during mammography?

You will need to undress to the waist in a private changing area, so it may be best to wear a skirt or trousers. The radiographerwill help you to get into the right position for the X-ray. Each breast is positioned between two special plates and you must then remain still for a short time while the X-rays are taken (one from the side and one from above).

What is the outcome of breast awareness and screening?

Breast self awareness and mammography are the two most important means of detecting breast cancer in its early stages, as well as other types of breast problems, and ensuring the best possible outcome from any treatment.