We all know that the gynecologist isn't fun. But, it doesn't have to completely suck. In our podcast we spoke to Dr. Marzia Cattaneo about how you can make your exam's more comfortable and the importance of it. It's just something that we have to do to maintain our health and for preventative care. An annual exam will tell you everything from STD'S, HPV, Cancer and more. It can suck being naked and constantly scooting down for your Doctor but, HPV, STD's and Cancer sucks even more. If you haven't scheduled one, take some time and follow this link and do so.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation THIS is how you should be giving yourself a breast exam.
1) In the Shower With the pads/flats of your 3 middle fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area, pressing down with light, medium, and firm pressure. Check both breasts each month, feeling for any new lumps, thickenings, hardened knots, or any other breast changes.
2) In Front of a Mirror With your arms at your sides, visually inspect your breasts, looking for any changes in the contour or shape of the breasts, any dimpling, swelling, or other skin irregularities on or around the breasts, or any changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or other changes, particularly on one side. Note that the left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts are perfectly symmetrical.
3) Lying Down When lying down, the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your 3 middle fingers around your right breast, covering the entire breast area and armpit. Use light, medium, and firm pressure to feel for any new lumps, thickenings, hardened knots, or any other breast changes. Also squeeze the nipple to check for discharge. Repeat these steps for your left breast.
Can you rely on self exams alone?
Mammography can usually detect tumors before you can feel them so screening is that key for early detection and your best chance, especially when combined with your regular medical care. If you find a lump, schedule with your doctor for that peace of mind.
Pap smears, breast exams and STD testing isn't fun, but it's something that we have to do. Even if you're in a monogamous relationship, getting STD tested never hurts. Certain things can go undetected and untreated and cause long-term problems. The goal is preventative care.
If you're feeling worried or scared, reach out to your provider, ask them/ their team some questions!
With the month being October, we thought this was the perfect time to put the message out there for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Please take care of yourselves.
-Mimi ❤️
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