Breast Health

Mammography is a type of X-Ray used to study the breasts. It is useful to help locate cancer at an early stage before cancer can be felt, or to check abnormalities noted on exam.

Who should have mammograms?

The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology recommends mammograms every 1-2 years beginning at age 40. Mammograms are recommended annually for women over age 50. Certain women may need mammograms earlier including those with a family history (mother, sister, or daughter) of pre-menopausal breast cancer. Women with this family history may need to initiate mammography at age 35 or 10 years prior to the family member’s age at diagnosis.

Concerning Breast Symptoms:

• Unexplained lump or thickening of breast tissue/underarm.
• Puckering or dimpling of the breast skin.
• Discharge or bleeding from the nipple.
• A change in the nipple or retraction (nipple pulled inward.)
• A visible change in the skin of the breast.

Self Breast Exam:

• Should be performed monthly the week after your period (since your breasts are not as tender or lumpy after your period and are easier to check).
• You need good light. Stand in front of a mirror and look for change in the breast including dimpling, nipple retraction, puckering, redness of the skin, or any change in breast size, shape, or appearance. Check with hands on hips and then raise hands in the air and look for any of the changes mentioned above.
• Next, lie down with a folded towel or pillow under the left shoulder. Place left hand over head. With right hand, feel left breast in a circle pattern. Start at the outside of the breast and work in a circle pattern until you reach the nipple. Repeat with pillow under right shoulder and check right breast.
• Last, check the nipples by squeezing to note for any discharge. Be sure to check under the armpits for abnormalities, as this is also breast tissue. Repeat entire procedure for the other breast.

More Information

• Listen to Katrina Redmond talk about Breast Health.