Breastlight

‘How well do you know your breasts? If you are checking for something as serious as breast cancer, it’s important to know exactly how they usually look and feel, so that you can spot any changes quickly and report them to a medical professional.

The size, shape and consistency of every woman’s breasts is different and can even vary dependent on the time of the month as part of your menstrual cycle. As an example, some women would have tender and lumpy breasts, predominantly around the armpit and especially around the time of their period. Menopause would also bring about its own changes too with normal breasts feeling softer, less firm and not as lumpy.

If you are looking to become more Breast Aware, you may wish to find out more by consulting the *NHS Breast Screening Programme which has a 5 point plan produced to make you more ‘Breast Aware’.

Our ‘hands-on’ guide to the Breast self-check

What am I searching for?

• A change in the size, outline or shape of your breast
• A change in the look or feel of your skin such as puckering or dimpling
• A new lump, thickening or bumpy area in one breast or armpit that is different from the same are on the other side
• Nipple discharge that is not milky
• Bleeding from the nipple
• A Moist, Red area on your nipple that doesn’t heal easily
• Any change in nipple position such as, your nipple being pulled in or pointing differently
• A rash on or around your nipple
• Any discomfort or pain in one breast. Particularly if it’s a new pain and doesn’t go away (this is a rare symptom for Breast Cancer but it is still best to be aware)

 Breastlight would always advise to see your GP if you are concerned

Whilst the above signs do not always point towards Breast Cancer, it is important that Breast Cancer is ruled out as soon as possible by a GP. If Breast Cancer is found, it is more likely to be treated successfully if it is found early,  so don’t delay !!!!– If you find something, speak to your GP today.