Worldwide Breast Cancer

Wear the gown and feel fabulous.

If you are age 20 or older, it’s time to put on a paper gown and get a professional exam. Not only is it a fashionable thing to do, but it is a good time to ask your doctor questions about your breast health and share what you know about your risk and make a plan together.

When?
Schedule your appointment to happen a couple days after your period ends each year. This time is likely when the swollen or tender areas of the breast have ended and gives the best results. Otherwise, the exam won’t be very consistent. If you no longer have a period, you can just pick a day that’s easy to remember each year.

If you find something suspicious before your normal appointment, don’t hesitate to see your doctor even if you are worried. Cure rates exceed 90% when breast cancer is found early, and that is comforting!

If you are over 40, schedule your clinical breast exam every year (best if done a few days after your period). If your doctor agrees something needs to be checked further, ask what the next step should be and follow-up. Typically it is a mammogram, or if you are younger, an ultrasound.