I Need Help With... Breast Health and Mammogram
Breast Health Information
Here’s what we get asked the most:
Why do my breasts hurt?
Is it normal to have different size breasts?
What do I look for during my self-breast exam?
When should I have a mammogram?
Let’s take these one at a time.
Breast Tenderness and Breast Pain
There are many possible causes for breast pain. For example, hormone level changes related to menstruation or pregnancy are often responsible for breast tenderness. Some degree of swelling and tenderness just before your period is normal.
Although many women with pain in one or both breasts may fear breast cancer, breast pain is NOT a common symptom of cancer.
Some degree of breast tenderness is normal. Breast pain can also be caused by injury or even liver damage. Certain medications may also cause breast pain, so check with us if you’re on any kinds of medication and you’re noticing some breast pain.
Be sure to contact us if you notice a discharge from your nipples, especially blood or pus, localized redness or fever, or if you’ve noticed a new lump associated with the pain that does not go away after your period.
Different Size Breasts
Different size breasts are perfectly normal. Everyone is different, and if you’re noticing your breasts, that’s a very good thing!
Breast awareness is vitally important. But if you’re concerned about having different size breasts, don’t worry. There’s not anything wrong with you. And, no amount of exercise, supplements or diets is going to make your breasts even.
We’re glad that you’re so aware of your breasts. Keep up the good work!
What to look for in a Self-Breast Exam
We’d like you to be checking your breasts monthly. Look for any changes in contour, swelling, dimpling of skin, or appearance of the nipple. It is normal if your right and left breasts do not match exactly.
Using the pads of your fingers, press firmly on your breast, checking the entire breast and armpit area. Move around your breast in a circular, up-and-down, or wedge pattern. Remember to use the same method every month. Check both breasts.
When to Have a Mammogram
Mammography uses special X-ray images to detect abnormal growths or changes in the breast tissue. The technician compresses the breast and takes pictures from at least two different angles, creating a set of images for each of your breasts. This set of images is called a mammogram. Breast tissue appears white and opaque and fatty tissue appears darker and translucent.
Ideally, you’ll have a mammogram ever three years until you’re 40, and then every year after you turn 40.
Have any more questions about Mammograms or Breast Health?
Please make an appointment. We’ll make sure that you get all the personal care and attention you need and deserve. Your health is our number one priority.