Absolutely. Regular breast exams increase your chances of detecting cancer in the early stages when it is most treatable. An estimated 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. There are three common breast exams that provide the most successful detection.
Self-Exams
Self-examinations should begin as early as the teenage years, but by age 20, women should be performing self-breast exams on a regular basis. They take only a few minutes and should especially be performed one week after the start of your period. The first part of a self-exam should be done in front of a mirror. Check the appearance of your breast from multiple angles and note any changes in breast size or shape. Notice if the texture of your skin looks irritated, dimpled, or retracted.
Clinical Exams
Clinical breast examinations are performed in Dr. Ayalon’s office. Before the exam begins, you should let Dr. Ayalon know about any changes you’ve noticed in your breasts and share your concerns and questions. Dr. Ayalon will address your concerns, answer your questions, and use any information you provide to help find and identify symptoms of breast cancer.
Mammograms
Mammograms are X-rays that are used to identify masses or tumors in the breasts. In this procedure, you will have your breast placed between two plates. The plates compress your breast to get the clearest image possible. This is known to cause discomfort, but will only last for a short moment while the picture is taken. Mammograms can tell if a tumor is present, but not whether it is cancerous or not.
Regular breast exams can ensure your health and give you peace of mind. Every woman should make it a priority not only to monthly self-examinations but also annual clinical exams with their OBGYN in Tarzana, CA. You can schedule your routine exam by contacting our office at (818) 654-9312.