🌱Wednesday Wellness - How well do you know your breasts? - 30Sep26 👀🩷
Wellness isn't always about adding something new to your routine. Sometimes, it's about taking a moment to pause, connect with your body, and listen to what it's telling you. 💗 This week, we're focusing on breast awareness. Taking a few minutes each month to know yourself and feel yourself can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to notice any changes that may need attention. 🔍 When checking your breasts, look and feel for changes such as: • A new lump or thickening • Changes in breast size or shape • Dimpling, puckering, or skin changes • Nipple changes or discharge • Persistent pain in one area of the breast or underarm Remember, many breast changes are not cancer, but it's always important to discuss any new or unusual changes with your GP. 💡 There is no "perfect" way to self-check. Some people do it in the shower, while getting dressed, or when applying moisturiser. The key is finding a routine that works for you. For those who have had breast cancer treatment, self-checking can feel different. Surgery, radiation, reconstruction, and ongoing treatments may change how your breasts and chest area feel. Getting to know your new normal is just as important, and your healthcare team can help guide you on what to look out for. 🌸 As part of your wellness journey this Wednesday, take a few moments to check in with yourself. A small habit today could make a big difference tomorrow. Click here to watch Breast Cancer Network Australia's educational video to learn how to self check, or follow the steps below; 👇 Do you have a regular reminder or routine that helps you stay breast aware? Share your tips with our community. 💕🚨Early detection saves lives - Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. 💗
It's been almost a year since we launched one of our most important breast cancer awareness campaigns; Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. Most of us spend time in front of the mirror every day. We check our hair, our clothes, or whether there's something in our teeth before heading out the door. But how often do we give the same attention to our breasts? BCNA's Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. campaign is built around a simple but powerful message: know what's normal for you, so you're more likely to notice when something changes. 🌸 There's No "Normal" Breast Breasts come in all shapes, sizes and textures. Some people have naturally lumpy breasts. Others may have one breast that's larger than the other. Some have inverted nipples. For many, these differences are completely normal. 💕 That's why breast awareness isn't about comparing yourself to someone else. It's about becoming familiar with your own body and understanding what's normal for you. Why Breast Awareness Matters Many people know about breast screening and mammograms, but breast awareness is something you can practise at any age and at any stage of life. Regular self-checks help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. If something changes, you're more likely to notice it and seek advice from your healthcare professional. 🌿 Changes to be aware of can include: 🔹 A new lump or thickening 🔹 Changes in breast size or shape 🔹 Dimpling or puckering of the skin 🔹 Redness, crusting or unusual skin changes 🔹 A nipple that suddenly turns inward 🔹 Swelling or unusual pain If you notice something that is unusual for you, it's important to make an appointment with your healthcare professional. Building Breast Checks Into Your Routine Breast awareness starts with something simple: getting to know your own body. 💗 Know yourself. Feel yourself. Know your normal. For more information and to watch BCNA's breast self-check video, visit the Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. campaign page on the BCNA website here: https://www.bcna.org.au/know-yourself-feel-yourself"Early detection saved my life" ❤️
When Nicole was diagnosed with breast cancer, it came as a particular shock. She was fit, healthy, active, and regularly checked her breasts. Despite having no obvious risk factors, Nicole noticed a change and trusted her instincts. Acting quickly led her to seek medical advice, which ultimately resulted in her diagnosis. By sharing her story, Nicole hopes to encourage others to become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel. 'Knowing your normal' can help you notice changes early and seek advice from a health professional as soon as possible. 👉 Read Nicole's story and learn more about the importance of breast awareness ❤️ Learn how to complete a breast self-check here 👀 Have you ever noticed a change through self-checking or breast awareness? Call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 to receive support - we are here to help 📞
