The mammologist told about the ways of breast self-examination within 5 minutes

Women need to inspect their underwear monthly for spots in the nipple area and evaluate breast symmetry, shape, skin color, and possible contractions so as not to miss any alarms. Anna Tregubova, oncologist and mammologist at Olympus Clinic MARS, told about this on February 13.

According to the expert, monthly self-examination of the mammary glands helps to develop the habit of observing your body, understanding its norm and noticing possible changes in time. It is recommended to start self-examination at the age of 20. The optimal time is from the 6th to the 12th day of the menstrual cycle, when the breasts are less sensitive. Menopausal women can choose any fixed day of the month, the doctor noted.

"The procedure begins with an examination of the underwear for spots in the nipple area, which may indicate discharge. This is followed by a visual inspection of the nipples: it is important to note redness, peeling or retraction. Next, you need to stand in front of the mirror without clothes, first with your hands down and then with your hands raised behind your head. In these positions, the symmetry of the breast, shape, skin color, possible retractions or areas resembling a "lemon peel" are evaluated," Tregubovaya said.

The next stage, as the mammologist noted, is palpation. In the standing position, the entire mammary gland is sequentially probed with three middle fingers in a circular motion with light pressure. After that, the nipple is gently squeezed to check the discharge. Then the examination is repeated lying down: using the pads of the fingers in a circular spiral from the armpit to the nipple. The left breast is checked with the right hand, and the right breast is checked with the left, Tregubova added. Finally, you need to carefully feel the axillary and supraclavicular areas for enlarged lymph nodes.

"It is necessary to consult a doctor immediately if any changes are detected: breast asymmetry, redness or changes in skin tone, skin or nipple retractions, nipple discharge outside of lactation, any seals in the gland or armpit area, as well as with enlarged lymph nodes or constant discomfort in one breast. Regular self—examination plays a key role in early diagnosis, making it possible to identify problems at the initial, often asymptomatic stages," she stressed

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Oncologist-mammologist Elena Zhukova, head of the office for the treatment of breast diseases at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), said on February 3 that the main function of a bra is to form an aesthetic shape and support tissues. In addition, she noted that from a medical point of view, there is no fundamental difference between bras with and without underwire. The choice depends solely on the preferences of the woman.

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