What is a healthy approach to my monthly breast self-examination (BSE)?
Dr. Ellis: Many women skip monthly self-breast examination because their breasts are lumpy. They wonder how they’ll find a new lump with others in the way. Still, those lumps represent what’s “normal” in YOUR breasts so get to know them! How big are they and where are they from month-to-month? You won’t notice changes if you aren’t checking. Changes in lump size, nipple retraction, or skin thickening that continue for a couple of months deserve medical attention, even if you’ve had a recent normal mammogram or breast ultrasound. Ask the basic question: “Do my breasts feel about the same as last month?” If the answer is yes, don’t worry yourself. If the answer is no, then continue to evaluate the area over the next one to two months. If you remain concerned after a couple months, contact your healthcare provider and schedule an appointment.
