Can u help me out in this?

[sreekar]

How will I know an irregularity is found?

Normally, the clinic will contact you in about two weeks in the event that you do or do not have an irregular mammogram. However, this does not mean that you should forget about it if you never hear from them again. This is your life on the line and although one may have good intentions, humans forget. Call the clinic back! Follow up on your own diagnosis. They usually say "no news is good news" but not when your health is concerned, be certain!

[sreekar]

What happens if I find out I have an irregularity?

Once you ascertain good news or bad, you can then proceed with indications if it happens to be bad. And most times, "bad" just means more in-depth views, examinations and biopsies. That's a scary word, biopsy. They may have to remove a cyst, lump, or lesion from your breast and even then it is more waiting. If your diagnosis comes back benign -- yay! If it does not, you will then be counseled and directed to more tests, more in-depth discussions and possibly more biopsies. Good Luck and Good Health.

[sreekar]

How to Perform a Self Breast Examination - Every Month

The best time to perform a breast self exam (in women who are still menstruating) is about three (3) days after the last day of your (menstrual) period. The breasts normally swell and can develop typical lumpiness when ovulating (approx. 14 days after your period ends) and pre-menstrual especially. This way if you wait until at the 3 day mark the breasts are not as likely to be swollen or tender during this time. If you at an age where you don't menstruate any longer, you should pick a time that is most convenient to you and stick with it - examining your breast the same day each month to compare variances.

Stand in front of a mirror and look for anything out of the ordinary (i.e. dark spots, peculiar obvious bulges, lumps or dents. Raise each arm separately and check for any changes from at rest at your side to raised position. Note any odd sensations as well and write them down if need be.

Now, raise one arm over your head and start with the pads of your fingertips in a clockwise position. Start at the outer most 12 o' clock part and make little clockwise turns with your finger tips. Then move to the 1 o' clock position and do a little clockwise motion with your fingertips for that area, and on and on until you reach 12 o' clock again. Then move in more towards the nipple and do an even smaller clock, and on and on (depending upon the size of your breasts). Almost like a clock (or two) within a clock. Feel in and around your armpit as well for swollen lymph glands or possible cysts, tumors or otherwise. Take notice of any tender or painful spots during the exam. Repeat with the opposite breast. It may take a few minutes at first but you will become faster as you get accustomed to it.