Regular breast exams are important for the early detection of breast changes. They can help identify potential issues before symptoms become noticeable, leading to earlier intervention. Various healthcare professionals contribute to breast care, from routine screenings to specialized diagnostics.
Your First Stop: Primary Care and Women’s Health Providers
For routine breast exams, a Primary Care Provider (PCP) or an Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB/GYN) are the first points of contact. These healthcare professionals perform clinical breast exams (CBEs) during annual check-ups. During a CBE, the provider visually inspects the breasts for changes in size, shape, or skin texture, such as dimpling or rashes. They also manually palpate the entire breast, underarm, and collarbone areas to feel for any lumps or abnormalities.
PCPs and OB/GYNs also order screening mammograms. A mammogram is an X-ray imaging test that can detect tumors or precancerous abnormalities too small to be felt during a physical exam. These routine visits allow for ongoing monitoring of breast health and serve as the initial step in addressing any concerns.
When Further Specialization is Needed
If a breast exam or screening mammogram reveals an abnormality, specialized evaluation is needed. A radiologist interprets imaging tests like mammograms, ultrasounds, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIs). These specialists identify abnormalities within breast tissue, distinguishing between benign conditions and potentially malignant tumors. They also guide procedures like biopsies if needed.
Should a biopsy confirm a suspicious finding, a breast surgeon becomes involved. Breast surgeons perform procedures to remove suspicious lumps or cancerous tissue. They are among the first specialists encountered after a breast cancer diagnosis. An oncologist then guides the treatment plan.
Oncologists specialize in treating cancer using various methods, including chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, or targeted treatments. They determine if additional treatments are needed to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The PCP or OB/GYN initiates the referral process to these specialists, ensuring a coordinated approach to care.
Preparing for and Undergoing the Exam
For a clinical breast exam, you will remove clothing from the waist up and be provided with a gown. During the exam, the healthcare provider will look at your breasts for visual changes and then use their fingertips to feel for lumps or other changes in the breast tissue, underarm, and collarbone areas. They might also check for any nipple discharge. The entire clinical breast exam takes less than 10 minutes.
For a mammogram, schedule the test when your breasts are least tender, typically the week after your menstrual period. Avoid applying deodorant, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes to your underarms or breasts on the day of the exam, as these substances can appear on the X-ray images and interfere with the reading. Wearing a two-piece outfit is convenient, as you will undress from the waist up and be given a gown.
During the mammogram, a technologist positions each breast on a platform, and a plastic plate compresses the breast. This compression helps spread out the breast tissue for a clearer image and reduces the amount of radiation needed. While compression can cause temporary discomfort, it lasts only a few seconds per image. The technologist takes X-ray images, two views of each breast, and the entire procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.