Why Self-Breast Exams Matter
Posted:
Updated:
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, including here in the Philippines.
The good news is, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), early detection through awareness, regular checkups, and screening can significantly improve survival rates.
One simple habit you can easily practice at home, at any time, is the Self-Breast Exam.
What is a Self-Breast Exam?
A Self-Breast Exam is a simple, at-home check that allows you to look for lumps, changes, or unusual signs in your breasts. It does not replace medical screening, but it can help you become more familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel—making it easier to spot changes early.
How to perform a Self-Breast Exam
Step 1: Look
- Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides.
- Check for changes in breast shape, size, or symmetry.
- Watch out for dimpling, swelling, redness, or changes in the nipple.
Step 2: Raise Your Arms
- Lift both arms overhead.
- Look for the same changes in shape, skin, or nipple appearance.
Step 3: Feel While Standing or Sitting
- Use the pads of your three middle fingers.
- Move in small circular motions across the whole breast—from collarbone to top of the abdomen, and from armpit to cleavage.
- Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to feel different tissue depths.
Step 4: Feel While Lying Down
- Place a pillow under your shoulder and your arm behind your head.
- Use your opposite hand to examine each breast carefully, covering the entire area.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of the following, schedule a check-up right away:
- A lump or thickened area that feels different from the rest of the breast
- Pain in the breast or nipple that doesn’t go away
- Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or scaling
- Discharge from the nipple (especially if bloody)
- An inverted nipple or sudden nipple changes
Remember: Finding something unusual doesn’t always mean cancer, but it’s always safer to get checked by a doctor.
As part of your HealthFlex or Medical Secure plan, you can speak to a licensed doctor from Doctor Anywhere through a free video consultation.
Go to the My Rewards section in your ManulifeMOVE dashboard to redeem your free teleconsults and get expert advice from the comfort of your home.
This article was first published on Doctor Anywhere Philippines and is republished on Manulife Philippines' website with permission.
Sources:
Want to learn more about how to plan for a better, longer life?
Talk to a financial advisor today!