BREAST SELF-AWARENESS
Everybody’s breasts are different – different sizes, shapes, and with various types of lumps that may come and go. What’s standard for you may not be your friend’s “normal.” Get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts by checking in with your body regularly. Look at and touch your breast tissue from multiple angles with varying pressure to feel both the deep and surface layers, from the interior by your ribs to just below the skin. Don’t forget that your breast tissue extends up your collarbone, around to your armpits, and into your breastbone.
If you notice any of these symptoms that persist or worsen for 2-3 weeks, see your doctor:
- Swelling, soreness or rash
- Warmth, redness or darkening
- Change in size or shape
- Dimpling or puckering of skin
- Itchy, scaly sore or rash on nipple
- Nipple that becomes flat or inverted
- Nipple discharge
- New, persistent pain in one spot
- Persistent itching
- Bumps that resemble bug bites
- A lump, particularly one that feels like a frozen pea
OVARIAN SELF-AWARENESS
Don’t forget your ovaries. To be Ovarian Self-Aware, you also need to know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and what’s normal for your body. When you know what’s normal for you, you’ll be more likely to notice any changes—and speak up should they occur.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague and often confused with digestive or menstrual complaints. If you notice any of these symptoms that persist or worsen for 2-3 weeks, see your doctor and ask “could it be my ovaries?:
- Bloating
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Needing to urinate urgently or often
- Fatigue
- Upset stomach or heartburn
- Back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Constipation
- Menstrual changes
https://www.brightpink.org/know-and-manage-your-risk/screening-and-self-awareness/