Breast Check
According to an Inthepink survey a massive 80% of women are checking their breasts. However if you are one of the remaining 20%, follow our guide and stay safe!
One of the most common changes within a woman's breasts are due to hormonal changes related to periods, pregnancy, menopause or aging. Further causes of changes in the breasts, which are not of concern, include fluid filled sacs called cysts and solid tissue growths called fibro adenomas. Throughout a woman's life many of these changes will occur, where only a small amount of changes will be down to breast cancer.
As many people know already all women's breasts are different, but it is down to the woman to determine how her breasts look and feel at different times. There are several ways to get to know what is normal for you:
- Every now and then take a look at yourself and notice the size, shape and skin of your breasts and nipples. Take notice and see if there is a difference between the two nipples, and if so what is it?
- Have a feel of your breasts time to time, perhaps before a shower of when you are getting dressed. Remember that your breasts extend to your collar bones and up under your arms, so make sure you check everywhere.
Many women who find a change in their breasts will be relieved to find out that it is not cancer. However there is the exception where some women find their changes are due to breast cancer, it is pivotal to remember that the faster breast cancer is diagnosed the better the chance of effective and successful treatment. However upon noticing any changes a GP consultation should be sought immediately.
Throughout the UK there are thousands of consultations for breast cancer every year for breast change; however most will not be cancer. In conjunction by having regular checks on your breasts it helps to ensure peace of mind and any irregularities are diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Many breast cancers are detected by women after finding a change in their breast and reporting it to a GP.