B R E A S T AWA R E N E S S
BREAST
AWARENESS Taking time out for yourself and knowing your body should be at the top of your list of priorities. We all come in amazing different shapes and sizes including our breasts and knowing what’s normal for you can help you look out for any changes that may occur with your breasts. So, whatever your age, shape or size, it’s always important to be breast aware! We will look at some normal changes that can occur with your breasts throughout life and some unusual changes you should look out for. Our breasts can all look and feel different. They are unique to us! It is normal for one breast to be bigger than the other and our breasts will change a lot throughout the course of our lives, from adolescence through to the menopause. How your breasts feel and look is affected by different hormone changes in your body. Breasts tissue can feel more tender, lumpy and heavy just before your periods. You can experience breast changes during pregnancy
30
H E A LT H M AT T E R S !
such as tingling and soreness and your breasts and nipples can become larger and fuller with the production of milk. During the menopause your breasts can also start to feel different, sometimes softer, and you may experience some discomfort along with a change in size and firmness. It can also be common for your breasts to become lumpy or show benign (noncancerous) nodules. If you do find any changes at all, you must always get them checked out. Try to check your breasts as part of your daily routine in a way that suits you best. This can be done in the shower, in front of a mirror or when you are getting changed. Try to check the whole of your breast, under your armpits and to your collar bone, so that you cover all areas.
SOME CHANGES YOU SHOULD LOOK AND FEEL FOR: l A change in size or shape l A change in texture or appearance of
