In observation of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, POP wants you to be aware that breast health should never be taken for granted. We all know that after finding a lump we should hightail it to the doctor’s office. But did you know that changes outside the breast can be indications that further examination is needed?

1. Watch for changes in your nipples. Be suspicious of inverted or retracted nipples, especially if they weren’t that way before. This also applies to a change in the direction of your nipple. Face the mirror and raise both arms. See any pulls or change in the skin? No? Good.

2. Lumps and bumps on the areolas are normal when you’re cold, but they shouldn’t remain after you warm up. If the bumps on your nipples persist, they could be plugged milk ducts. In rare cases, it could be a ductal carcinoma in situ, a highly treatable early stage cancer. Check with your doctor to be sure.

3. Did you know most nipple discharges are benign and caused by infections, fibroadenomas, intraductal papillomas, pregnancy or clogged milk ducts? But if you see a bloody discharge from one nipple or a discharge you feel is unrelated to pregnancy or breastfeeding, make an appointment with your health professional.

4. During pregnancy or nursing our breasts change and the areola darkens and becomes larger. However, if you see thickened skin, or an orange peel texture, an inflamed appearance or warmer than normal skin temperature around your nipples, you may have an ordinary rash or a breast infection. But don’t fool around.

It could be Paget’s disease of the nipple or inflammatory breast cancer.

Better to be an alarmist than a victim! ‘Nough said.

Your friends at Parenting on the Peninsula

Have a great month!