Breast examination

Breast examination — why is it important?

Breast examination is a key part of preventive gynecological check-up helping in early detection of breast tissue changes. Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, and early diagnosis significantly improves prognosis and cure chances.

Breast examination methods

• Clinical breast exam — systematic palpation by a gynecologist for lumps, skin dimpling, or nipple changes
• Breast ultrasound — non-invasive visualization of breast tissue structures, especially useful for young women with dense tissue
• Mammography — X-ray examination, gold screening standard from age 40
• Breast MRI — for high-risk patients or unclear findings
• Biopsy — tissue sampling for histopathological analysis of suspicious lesions

What can examination reveal?

• Fibroadenoma — benign firm lump, most common in young women
• Fibrocystic changes — painful fluid-filled cysts, benign condition
• Papilloma — benign growth in milk duct
• Lipoma — benign fatty growth
• Breast cancer — early detection key to successful treatment

Breast self-examination

Every woman from age 20 should regularly perform monthly breast self-examination (best 7-10 days after period start). Pay attention to: lumps, skin color changes, nipple retraction, nipple discharge.

When to see a gynecologist?

• New lump or thickening found in breast
• Change in breast size, shape, or contour
• Nipple discharge (especially bloody)
• Skin or nipple retraction
• Redness, peeling, or thickening of breast skin