How well do you know your breasts/chest? Why palpation is so important

Whether big or small, round or pointy, firm or soft - did you know that only one in three women is satisfied with her breasts/chest, according to an international team of researchers? However, we all naturally want our breasts/chest to stay healthy. And for that, it is important that we consciously dedicate ourselves to our breasts.

On 4th of February it is World Cancer Day and as you know, we at Ergobaby support Pink Ribbon Belgium - a non-profit organisation that fights breast cancer. Apart from the fact that your breasts are an important part of you and simply deserve to be loved, it is also the case that six out of 10 breast cancers are discovered by women themselves.

Take the test: How well do you know your breasts/chest?

Hey there, boobies - nice to meet you!

If you're not already one of those who pay plenty of attention to their boobs, it's high time you went on a date with them. By consciously looking in the mirror or palpating your breasts/chest you can get to know them on a more personal level. Because only if you know them well can you notice possible changes in them.  Some changes of course can be harmless, but they can also warn you of possible breast cancer. If you're unsure how well you know your breasts/chest, this quiz will help.

You can find the important warning signs of breast cancer below. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, please get them checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.

The 9 most important warning signs of breast cancer

  1. Palpable lumps, a swelling or unusual pain in the breast.
  2. Visible lumps on the breast.
  3. Palpable lumps in one of the armpits.
  4. Bumps on the breast/chest that you can only see when you raise your hands above your head.
  5. Shape of your breast/chest has changed.
  6. A retracted nipple.
  7. Secretion flowing from the nipple.
  8. Uneven, hard skin on the breast.
  9. Changed skin colour on the breast/chest such as spots or redness. The skin on your breast/chest changes colour.

It’s over to you now: palpation made easy

Examining your breasts/chest yourself can help detect breast cancer early. And that's good because the earlier a lump is discovered, the better the chances of cure. The larger the tumour, the higher the probability that it has spread via blood or lymph and that it has also affected other organs.

Therefore: take your breasts/chest in your hands and take preventive measures. Of course, self-examination is not a substitute for regular check-ups at the doctor's and is not as accurate as ultrasound or mammography. But it can help you to be more confident and maintain your health.

The question remains: how do you examine your own breasts/chest without driving yourself crazy?

That's what the free Breastcare app from Pink Ribbon explains. Just download it and start feeling...

Please remember that self examination is not replacing regular contact with the doctor but can help provide an indication if further investigation is needed.

Quiz Link:
https://www.mammoquiz.be/l/fr-BE#!/

App Download
https://www.breastcare.app/en/

Sources:
https://pink-ribbon.be/fr/sur-le-cancer-du-sein/%C3%A0-quel-point-connaissez-vous-vos-seins https://mammacare.org/
https://mammacare.de/