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SELF BREAST EXAMINATION

Definition

Self Breast Exam or better known as the Breast self-examination (BSE) is a method offinding abnormalities of the breast, for early detection of breast cancer. The method

involves the woman herself looking at and feeling each breast for possible lumps,

distortions or swelling.

Purpose

1. To detect early changes in their breast2. To detect lumps or any abnormalities in the breast3. For early detection in disease resulting in a greater chance of cure and less

complex treatment

Principle

1. Complete the breast self-examination approximately two to three days after amenstrual cycle

2. The self-exam is performed by standing in front of a mirror with the torsoexposed to view.

3. For non-lactating women, nipples are gently squeezed to check for any discharge4. To be effective during palpation, the entire breast should be covered, including

the tail of Spence (axillay tail) of each breast that extends toward the axilla

(armpit).

5. For premenopausal women, BSE is best done at the same stage of their periodevery month

6. Older, menopausal women should do BSE once a month, perhaps on the first orlast day of every month.

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The 7 Ps of Breast Self Examination (BSE)

1.Position: Inspect breasts visually and palpate in the mirror with arms at variouspositions. Then perform the examination lying down, first with a pillow under

one shoulder, then with a pillow under the other shoulder, and finally lying flat.

2.Perimeter: Examine the entire breast, including the nipple, the axillary tail thatextends into the armpit, and nearby lymph nodes.

3.Palpation: Palpate with the pads of the fingers, without lifting the fingers as theymove across the breast.

4.Pressure: First palpate with light pressure, then palpate with moderate pressure, andfinally palpate with firm pressure.

5.Pattern: There are several examination patterns, and each woman should use the onewhich is most comfortable for her. The vertical strip pattern involves moving the

fingers up and down over the breast. The pie-wedge pattern starts at the nipple

and moves outward. The circular pattern involves moving the fingers in

concentric circles from the nipple outward. Dont forget to palpate into the

axilla.

6.Practice: Practice the breast self-exam and become familiar with the feel of the breasttissue, so you can recognize changes. A health care practitioner can provide

feedback on your method.

7. Plan: Know what to do if you suspect a change in your breast tissue. Know yourfamily history of breast cancer. Have mammography done as often as your

health care provider recommends.

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Reference:

Kozier, Barbara, et.al Fundamentals of Nursing. Philippines: Pearson Education South Asia PTE

LTDF. 2004. pp.986-987

How to Perform a Self-Breast Examination Nursing Crib. 13 September 2009.

22 June 2011. The Best Time to Do a Self Breast Exam eHow.com. 25 November 2010.

22 June 2011.

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