Pink October: why you should check your breasts every month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Pink October. It is a good time to remind ourselves of something that only takes a few minutes: regularly checking your own breasts.

Knowing your breasts is important. By looking at and feeling your breasts regularly, you become familiar with what is normal for you. This can help you notice changes more easily and recognise when it is a good idea to consult a doctor.

Why should you check your breasts yourself?

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. There are several ways to detect changes at an early stage.

Checking your breasts yourself can be one of them. The aim is not to diagnose yourself, but rather to become familiar with your own body.

Every woman is different. Breasts can change throughout the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to hormonal changes, ageing or other factors. So, a change does not automatically mean that something is wrong.

But when you know your breasts, you are more likely to notice when something changes.

How can you check your breasts?

Checking your breasts does not have to be complicated. Try to set aside a few minutes once a month.

1. Look at your breasts

Stand in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed by your sides.

Look for changes such as:

• a change in size or shape
• new asymmetry
• changes to the skin
• redness or swelling
• dimpling or pulling in of the skin
• changes to the nipple
• a nipple that suddenly turns inward
• fluid or blood coming from the nipple

Then raise your arms above your head and look again. Some changes may be easier to notice in this position.

2. Feel your breasts

Use your fingers to gently feel your breasts. You can do this in the shower or while lying down.

Remember to check not only the breast itself, but also the area towards the armpit.

Pay attention to a new lump, thickening or other change that you have not noticed before.

There is no need to press hard. A systematic approach can help you make sure you check the entire breast.

When is the best time to check your breasts?

You can check your breasts at any time, but during your period your breast tissue may temporarily feel more tender or lumpy.

Many women therefore prefer to check their breasts once a month at a fixed point in their menstrual cycle, when the breasts feel less swollen or tender.

If you no longer have periods, you can simply choose a fixed day each month.

The most important thing is to make it a habit.

Have you felt a lump? Don’t panic.

A lump or change in the breast does not automatically mean breast cancer. There are many benign causes of changes in breast tissue.

However, it is important not to ignore a new or unusual change.

Contact your doctor if, for example, you notice a new lump, a change in the skin or nipple, or fluid or blood coming from the nipple.

Your doctor can assess whether further examination is necessary.

Self-checking does not replace breast screening

Checking your breasts regularly is a way to become more familiar with your body, but it is not a substitute for professional breast screening or medical examination.

Depending on your age, personal situation and possible risk factors, your doctor may recommend additional examinations, such as a mammogram, ultrasound or another type of imaging.

Always follow the screening advice that applies to you.

Breast awareness is also important after breast surgery

Have you had breast surgery, such as breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reduction? It remains important to know your breasts and be aware of any changes.

Breast implants do not change the importance of regular breast health checks. During a medical examination, always let your healthcare provider know that you have breast implants so they can take this into account.

Look. Feel. Get to know your breasts. And take changes seriously.

Have you noticed a change in your breast that concerns you? Contact your GP or treating doctor. This information does not replace professional medical advice or examination.