Sue's Sex FAQ
Breasts
Sex FAQs provided by Sue Johanson of the Sunday Night Sex Show.
Q. Breast cancer runs on both sides of my family and after watching my mother succumb to the disease I am terrified of getting it. I plan on getting a mammogram, meanwhile, can you tell me how to do a Breast Self Exam?
A. Learning to do a Breast Self Exam (BSE) is a survival technique for every female and most males too. Most of us have a family history of cancer of the breast. I am concerned that this fear is uppermost in your mind and almost becoming an overriding preoccupation. So, do make an appointment with your family doctor and tell the doctor about your fears. Do tell your doctor if you are on the birth control pill as some research does seem to indicate an increased risk. And if you smoke, be sure to tell your doctor. You know the doctor is going to tell you to stop smoking NOW, so count on that. I would ask the doctor to do a breast exam on you right then.
When you get home, repeat the exam on yourself, so you know what you are feeling. At that time, ask for a requisition for a mammogram. Normally they do not request a mammogram until you are 40 years of age, then it is for a "base line" test they can use in the future to detect any changes.
To do a BSE, wait until your period is finished, then in the shower, all lathered up, raise your right arm over your head. Now with the fleshy pads of your left hand fingers, start at the nipple and gently pres down in a circular motion, moving down an inch after each completed circle. Then, gently press the lymph nodes in your armpit, feeling for any small lumps or bumps. Do this exam every month after your period. When you are towelling dry, stand in front of the mirror and look at your breasts. You are checking to see if one breast is noticeably larger than the other, or if one breast hangs lower than the other, or if the nipple is not in the same position as the other breast. Look for any outward bulges or inward "dimples."
There is an amazing new flat silicone gel pad, about 20cm x 20cm. You place this over your breast when you are lying down, then feel through the gel pad. It magnifies the feel of any lump. You can call 1-888-673-0413, toll free, and order one; it costs about $300 plus tax. Everyone in my crew loves it. Then relax.
Q. I've noticed my nipples have loose skin in the very tip. What is this?
A. No idea. I can't even picture it. Every female's nipples are different. There is no pain or discomfort? No. Then that is your body. If it doesn't hurt or bother you than if it ain't broke doesn't fix it. Enjoy.
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