The breast exam 129
What to do if you find a lump
If the lump is smooth or rubbery, and moves under the skin when you
push it, do not worry about it, but keep checking it each month. But if it is
hard, has an uneven shape, and is painless or grows in size, keep watching
it—especially if the lump is in only one breast and does not move even
when you push it. See a health worker if the lump is still there after your
next monthly bleeding. This may be a sign of cancer. You should also get
medical help if there is a discharge from the nipple that looks like blood
or pus.
Ask an experienced health worker to check any lump you find, whether
it is smooth or uneven. Continue having regular breast exams even
after your monthly bleeding stops (menopause).
One way you can examine your breasts
How to examine your breasts
Look at your breasts in a mirror, if you have one. Raise
your arms over your head. Look for any change in the
shape of your breasts, or any swelling or changes in the
skin or nipple. Then put your arms at your sides and
look at your breasts again.
Lie down and, if possible, put one arm
behind your head. Keeping your fingers
flat, press your breast and feel for
any lumps. Change arms to feel
the other breast.
Be sure to touch every
part of your breast. It
helps to use the same
pattern every month.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007