Breast Self-Exam Reminder

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Staying healthy begins when you take the time each month for a self examination of your breasts. Let us help you remember to do so by signing up for a personal Breast Self-Exam (BSE) Reminder. Each month, we'll send you an email with instructions on how to do a breast self-exam. By following the sign-up instructions below, you can personalize your BSE Reminder. Take a look: 1. Determine which day is best for you based on the following: *Examine your breasts when they are the least tender, seven days after the start of your menstrual cycle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have breast implant(s) or have entered menopause, you still need to examine your breasts once a month. Breastfeeding mothers should examine their breasts when all milk has been expressed. If you have had a mastectomy with or without breast reconstruction, you also need to examine your mastectomy scar and reconstructed breast(s) once a month. Seek medical attention if a lump is discovered or if any changes are detected. 2. Press (only once) the button on the calendar below for the day of the month you wish to begin receiving your reminder. On the next pages, submit your email address, confirm your subscription and you're done! This is a free service and you will always have the option to unsubscribe. BSE Reminder - Step 1 (Choose your day) Trouble signing up? Email the list name (BSE Reminder) and day of choice to the List manager.

While standing in positions A,B,C and D, visually observe your breasts for changes in contour, shape, color and texture of the skin. Check nipple area for any discharge.

Use your left hand to examine the right breast and your right hand for your left breast. Most breast cancers occur in the upper outer area of the breast (between the underarm and nipple).

Use the side-lying position to most effectively examine the outer half of the breast. A woman with smll breasts may only need to use the flat position.

Side-lying Position (E): Lie on the side opposite the breast you are examining. Without moving your hips, rotate your shoulder back to a flat surface. This position is best for examining the outer half of the breast. Flat Position (F): Lie down with a pillow or folded towel under the shoulder of the breast you are examining. Raise the arm of the side to be examined as shown, resting it on the flat surface. With your opposite hand, examine your breast.

The area to be examined includes the collarbone to the bra line and the breastbone to the underarm. Visually divide this area into vertical strips to completely cover all breast tissue. Use this as a pattern to carefully examine each section of the breast area.Using the pads of your three middle fingers held flat, examine your breast tissue by moving your fingers in small circular motions. Do not lift your fingers from your breast, but slide your fingers from one spot to the next.

Starting with the underarm, proceed downward towards the bra line, then continue upward to the collarbone. Repeat the small circular motions applying varying degrees of pressure. Use light pressure to feel for changes below the skin surface and deeper pressure to feel for changes in breast tissue. While your arm is relaxed and at your side, examine the breast tissue that extends into your underarm.

Nipple discharge, when the nipple is squeezed, is often a normal occurrence for most women. However, if there is a discharge that occurs spontaneously, particularly if it is from only one breast, your physician should examine you.