Blog article
Why you need to be performing monthly breast self-exams
With one in every eight women receiving a breast cancer diagnosis by the age of 85, regular self-examination, combined with biannual mammograms for women between 50 and 74, are crucial for early detection, timely intervention, and improved outcomes.1
Understanding breast self-exams
Breast self-exams or self-checks are a simple yet powerful tool when it comes to early detection of breast cancer. The Australian College of Nursing recommends performing breast self-checks every month to allow yourself to become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, making it easier to identify any potential concerns.2
With more than half of breast cancers in women detected by the women themselves3, becoming familiar with your breasts’ normal appearance and feel allows you to promptly report any changes to your GP, ensuring early intervention and treatment.
Steps for performing a breast self-exam
It’s important to remember that breasts vary in shape and size, and what is “normal” for you, may look different to a friend or loved one. That’s why it's crucial to get to know your breasts and conduct regular checks.
Remember to conduct your breast self-exam at around the same time every month to account for hormonal changes.2
Step 1: Visual inspection
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed. Observe both breasts for changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Note any dimpling, puckering, or changes in nipple position. Next, raise both arms above your heard. Check to see if any changes in shape in your breasts have been made visible. Finally, place your hands on your hips and bend slightly towards the mirror. This will help contract your chest muscles and reveal any changes in your breasts not noticeable in the first two positions.2
Step 2: Hop into the shower
When in the shower, put your left hand behind your head, and inspect your breast with the finger pads of your right hand in a circular motion, moving from the outside to the centre. Check for lumps, thickening, or hardened knots. Pay attention to any changes in texture or tenderness. Once finished, swap sides.3
Step 3: Lie down
Lie down, place a pillow behind your left shoulder, and your left arm behind your head. Using your right hand, use the pads of your fingers to feel your breast and armpit. Move your fingers in a circular motion, checking for lumps, thickening, or hardened knots. Pay attention to any changes in texture or tenderness. Gently squeeze each your nipple to check for discharge or inversion. Once done, do the same for your right side.2
Understanding mammograms
While breast self-exams are valuable for early detection, it’s important to remember they are not a replacement for mammograms. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast which can detect a lump as small as a grain of rice and up to 90% of breast cancers.3
Women aged between 50 to 74 who have no symptoms of breast cancer are recommended to have a free screening mammogram every two years. If you’re aged between 40 and 49, or 75 and over, your GP will be able to advise you on the benefits of a free screening mammogram.
Learn more about booking in for a free mammogram in your state: ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA.
What happens during a mammogram screening?
Step 1: Introduction and form collection
A radiographer will greet you and collect any necessary forms for your screening mammogram. They will also explain the procedure to you. All BreastScreen Australia radiographers are female.
Step 2: Preparation in the x-ray room
The radiographer will then escort you to a private X-ray room. Here, you will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up.
Step 3: Positioning for the mammogram
The radiographer will position one breast at a time between two plates on the X-ray machine. These plates will gently but firmly compress the breast for approximately 10 seconds to capture the images required. Typically, two pictures are taken of each breast: one from the side and one from above.
The mammogram itself usually takes just a few minutes to complete. The entire appointment, including preparation and the actual procedure, typically lasts around 20 minutes. While a mammogram can be uncomfortable, it should not be painful. If you’re in pain, tell the radiographer who can release the pressure.
Are mammograms dangerous?
Mammograms are completely safe. Your breasts are exposed to the smallest amount of radiation possible, with BreastScreen Australia equating it to 18 weeks of radiation exposure in a natural environment.5
How can HBF help?
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer and require treatment such as a lumpectomy, depending on your level of HBF hospital cover you’ll able to choose your preferred specialist; stay in a private room if you’re admitted to a Member Plus hospital and a private room is available; and we’ll pay towards your doctors' fees and theatre fees. Remember that waiting periods apply before benefits are payable towards this type of treatment.
