Breast Exams

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What is a Breast Exam?

Prioritizing your breast health is essential. Starting in your 20s and 30s, it’s important for you to understand your risk and establish a routine for early detection.

You can improve your chances of detecting breast cancer early by receiving regular breast exams. A Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) is a physical exam that can detect lumps and any other abnormal changes in your breasts.

Your doctor will perform a thorough check, and if any abnormal changes are detected, they may recommend further screening, such as a mammogram.

Women's Health

What Your Doctor is Checking For

During your breast exam, the goal is simply to be thorough and to notice anything that feels or looks different than what’s typical for you. They'll be gently feeling and looking for specific characteristics, which helps them create a complete picture of your breast health.

The OB-GYN will be checking for:

  • Lumps: They'll pay close attention to the size, shape, and texture of any masses they feel.
  • Consistency: They’re checking for areas that feel unusually firm or thickened compared to the rest of your breast tissue.
  • Skin Changes: Your doctor will be looking at the surface of your skin for signs like puckering, dimpling (like an orange peel), or redness.
  • Nipple Changes: They'll check your nipples for things like inversion (if they suddenly turn inward), scaling, or any unusual discharge.
  • Lymph Nodes: Because breast cancer can sometimes spread, your doctor will also gently feel the lymph nodes in your armpit (axilla) and the area above your collarbone for any swelling or firmness.

In short, your doctor is gathering all the necessary information to ensure you are as healthy as possible.

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