THEbreast self-examination (or self-palpation) is a method that allows women to know their breasts, to observe them and feel them on a regular basis in order to be able to detect a change, to discover a abnormal sign or a suspicious mass. The aim is to identify any anomaly that may indicate the presence of breast cancer.

Remember that breast cancer is the most common female cancer in the European Union and North America. Early diagnosis is the best way to fight cancer.

Self-examination does not replace other methods, but it helps to be vigilant. In the slightest doubt, a clinical examination by a doctor will be necessary, possibly supplemented by a mammography (the reference screening examination).

In addition to screening exams performed at the doctor’s office,auto-palpation can help make an early diagnosis, by regularly monitoring the appearance of the breasts and helping women to be more attentive to changes.

The examination should be performed a few days after the end of the menstruation, because the breasts are then more flexible.

It is first of all a visual examination. In front of a mirror, examine the appearance of your breasts in the following positions:

• arms along the body
• hands on hips
• arms raised
• leaning forward

The goal is to look for a change in size, shape, contour of the breasts, to identify redness or any other change in appearance of the skin.

Then, it is a question of palpating the breasts, while remaining upright (in the shower or not) or while lying on the side. All parts of the breast should be examined using the three middle fingers:

• by making a series of circles from the edge of the breast to the center
• by drawing vertical lines

The goal is to identify the possible presence of bump, unusual mass or a change in texture. Do not forget to also feel the part between the armpits and the breasts. Also gently squeeze the nipples to see if there is any discharge.

It is advisable to consult a doctor in the slightest doubt or if you notice any of the following signs

• a lump or thickening inside the breast
• a pain, a feeling of burn, the deformation breast
• the presence of nodules under the armpits
• un flow nipple or unusual tenderness
• a redness or change on the breast skin

If you have detected an anomaly, don’t panic. The presence of a change does not necessarily mean the presence of breast cancer. Most of the changes found are not cancerous. The breasts may have small lumps (nodules) or be more sensitive during menstruation, for example. Consult a doctor, he will give you a precise diagnosis and carry out additional examinations if necessary.

The practice of monthly self-examination is subject to debate in the medical community. Although not inherently dangerous, it is believed that the examination may, in some cases, cause concern and increase the number of unnecessary diagnostic tests.

Usually, regular self-palpation is still recommended, between the usual screening exams and annual visits to the gynecologist.