Breast self-examination is a method that every woman can do at home. You can observe external abnormalities and use your fingertips to check for internal abnormalities in your own body. But if one day you feel a small lump under the skin that moves and you have never felt it before, what should you do? The lump found may be a harmless foreign object or it could be a sign of breast cancer. Let’s see how to handle it.
How to perform self-examination?
Many women may already perform self-examinations regularly, but many may have never done it. Here are 3 simple techniques to use for breast cancer screening by yourself.
- Radial Spokes Pattern This method involves palpating the breast from the outer area towards the nipple, similar to the rays of a star. Place three fingertips (index, middle, ring fingers) around the breast, press gently, and move the fingers in a straight line towards the nipple. Repeat in all directions of the breast until all areas are checked. Don’t forget to check the underarm area as lumps can also occur there.
- Vertical Strips Pattern This method involves palpating the breast vertically up and down, similar to moving the fingers from top to bottom and bottom to top. Start palpating from the top of the breast (near the collarbone), move the fingertips down to the base of the breast, then shift the fingers slightly to the left or right and palpate upwards again. Repeat until the entire breast, including the underarm area, is examined.
- Circular Pattern This method involves palpating in circular motions from the outer area of the breast towards the nipple. Start palpating from the outermost part of the breast, using fingertips to make small circles gradually moving inward until reaching the nipple. Apply varying pressure (light, medium, firm) to ensure palpation at all tissue levels.
Are movable lumps in the breast dangerous?
The characteristics and texture of a lump can initially indicate the level of risk. Lumps with a smooth surface are usually harmless, but if the lump has an irregular surface or sharp edges, it should be suspected as potentially malignant.
For accurate diagnosis, regardless of the type of lump you find, women can consult a specialist for breast cancer risk screening using mammography for a definitive diagnosis. The doctor may consider a biopsy for pathological examination if there is suspicion that the lump may be malignant.
What lumps or symptoms require immediate medical consultation?
- A new lump that has never been felt before
- A lump that grows rapidly in size
- A lump that is not painful when pressed (breast cancer usually does not cause pain in the early stages)
- Swelling, redness, or abnormal changes in the breast such as dimpling of the skin or an orange peel-like texture
- Nipple discharge
Finding a lump in the breast does not always mean cancer, but it should not be ignored. You should see a specialist for a thorough diagnosis. If the lump is found to be a cyst or a harmless lump, you can be reassured. But if it is a suspicious lump that may be malignant,
early detection increases the chances of complete treatment. Don’t forget to perform regular breast self-examinations and have mammograms annually, especially for those aged 35 and above, to ensure your health and live life to the fullest.
