October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, share important information and remind the women around us to take a moment for themselves.
At RENUE, we believe in feeling comfortable and confident in your body, whatever stage of life you're in. And part of that is taking the time to look after yourself.
So, consider this your gentle reminder to check your breasts, get to know what's normal for you and never ignore a change that doesn't feel right.
Why is breast awareness so important?
Around 1 in 7 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
Breast cancer can affect women of all ages, and while many breast changes are completely harmless, knowing what is normal for your body can help you recognise when something is different.
When breast cancer is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful. That's why taking a few minutes to check your breasts regularly is such an important habit.
Get to know what's normal for you
Your breasts are unique to you, and it's completely normal for them to change throughout your life.
Your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause can all affect how your breasts look and feel. You might notice changes in tenderness, size or texture at different times.
The important thing is to become familiar with what's normal for your body, so you can recognise anything new or unusual.
What signs should you look out for?
When checking your breasts, it's important to look and feel for any changes that are new or unusual for you.
These can include:
- A lump or swelling: In your breast, chest or armpit.
- Changes in size or shape: Any difference that is unusual for you.
- Skin changes: Such as dimpling, puckering, redness or a change in texture.
- Nipple changes: Including a nipple turning inwards, a rash or crusting around the nipple.
- Unusual discharge: Any fluid from the nipple when you're not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Persistent pain: Pain in your breast or armpit that doesn't go away.
These changes don't automatically mean you have breast cancer. However, if you notice something new or unusual, it's important to make an appointment with your GP and get it checked.
How to check your breasts
Checking your breasts doesn't need to be complicated, and there's no special technique you need to learn.
The NHS recommends checking your breasts or chest regularly, around once a month, to help you become familiar with what's normal for you.
1. Look
Stand in front of a mirror and look at your breasts, first with your arms by your sides and then raised above your head.
Look for any changes in size, shape, skin texture or the appearance of your nipples.
2. Touch
Using your fingers, gently feel around your whole breast area, including up to your collarbone and into your armpits.
Check for any lumps, swelling or anything else that feels different from usual. Remember to check around and over your nipples, too.
3. Check
If you notice anything new or unusual, don't ignore it. Contact your GP for advice.
You can check your breasts in the shower, lying down or whenever feels comfortable for you. The most important thing is getting into a regular habit.
Where to find trusted advice and support
We're not medical experts, so we always recommend turning to trusted health organisations for further information and guidance.
If you'd like to learn more about breast awareness, symptoms or how to check your breasts, these are helpful places to start:
NHS
For advice on how to check your breasts or chest, what changes to look for and when to contact your GP.
Read the NHS guide
Breast Cancer Now
For their Touch, Look, Check guide, information about symptoms and support for anyone affected by breast cancer.
Explore Breast Cancer Now
A little reminder from us 🤍
Looking after yourself doesn't always have to mean making big changes. Sometimes, it's about taking a few minutes out of your day to check in with yourself.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're encouraging our community to get to know their bodies, make breast awareness part of their routine and share this reminder with the women they love.
Touch. Look. Check.
Because taking care of yourself matters.
Love,
RENUE x