Self Breast Care

SELF BREAST CARE

I think that everyone knows that self care and periodic breast exams are pretty important and there are a lot of comprehensive resources out there to guide you about these things. I just want to add some information here about Breast Composition Density and Breast Self Exams because these still seems to be misunderstood.

I ask clients if they know what their breast tissue composition or BI-RADS score is and I am still surprised by the amount of educated, affluent and intelligent women who do not. I explain as best I can about how important knowing their breast density/BI-RADS score is. I also let them know that as important as it is, their BI-RADS score doesn't replace a physician or radiologist's opinion and is not a substitute for their annual breast exam or monthly breast self-exams (BSE’s). Also, breast tissue density has nothing to do with how your breasts feel to you. You need to ask for this form your health care provider.

Dense Breast Tissue Composition

What Does It Mean to Have Dense Breasts from the CDC

Does Having Dense Breasts Increase Your Risk for Cancer from Health Line

Breast Density and Mammograms

BI-RADS Scores

What Is a BI-RADS Score from John Hopkins University

BI-RADS and Breast Density from Health Line

Breast Self Exam Resources

There also seems to be some different ideas and a little confusion on how to do a proper self breast exam. So here is a great video at www.easybreastexam.com that will show you how to do a very effective self-breast exam, it is from the author of the book below and hosted on her website www.pinklotus.com.

Breasts: The Owner's Manual by Dr. Kristy Funk
I like this book because even though it focuses on breast cancer prevention it also provides a clear path to breast health as well as personal health overall. You can get it at Amazon | Audible | Half Price Books

Alternative Breast Exam Options
I feel like this is a really important subject, especially for women who have denser breasts. Some of my clients who are at a higher risk or just more cautious will opt to get one of these in addition to their mammogram or alternate between different methods each year as they all have their strengths and weaknesses. Some cost a little more and some are not available in all areas. Here are some options: Regular Mammogram, Digital mammograms, 3D mammograms and MRI’s; Thermography, Whole Breast Ultrasounds , Video, as well as Newer and Experimental Breast Imaging Tests.

These are just some resources that I find informative and relevant to my clients, nothing replaces your own research which includes consulting your primary health care provider.