Breast Exams
At Dr. Celia Mendes’s GYN practice, we prioritize women’s health through comprehensive breast exams. Regular breast exams are an essential part of preventive care, helping to detect any potential abnormalities early, including lumps, changes in size or shape, and other signs of breast cancer. Our goal is to provide compassionate, thorough care while promoting awareness of breast health.
Why Regular Breast Exams Matter
- Early detection of breast cancer
- Identifying lumps or abnormalities
- Monitoring breast health changes over time
- Providing peace of mind and prevention
- Guidance on self-breast exams at home
Regular breast exams, performed by a healthcare professional, can help detect issues such as lumps, cysts, or other changes in breast tissue that may not be noticeable during a self-exam. At Dr. Celia Mendes’s practice, we recommend annual breast exams as part of your routine gynecological care, especially for women over 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer.
We also provide education on how to perform self-breast exams at home, empowering you to monitor your breast health between visits. Our team will discuss any findings during the exam and recommend additional imaging tests, such as mammograms or ultrasounds, if necessary.
Book your breast exam today and take an important step toward maintaining your breast health.
What to Expect During a Breast Exam
- Visual Examination: We begin by looking at the breasts for any visible changes, including differences in size, shape, or symmetry.
- Manual Palpation: The doctor will use their hands to feel the breast tissue and underarm areas for lumps, thickening, or other abnormalities.
- Discussion: After the exam, the doctor will discuss any findings with you and recommend next steps, including further testing if necessary.
- Self-Exam Guidance: We provide instructions on how to perform a breast self-exam at home, empowering you to monitor your breast health between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start getting breast exams?
It is generally recommended that women begin receiving annual breast exams in their 20s or 30s, with more frequent exams recommended for those over 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer.
What should I do if I find a lump during a self-exam?
If you notice a lump or any unusual changes during a self-breast exam, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your doctor for a professional evaluation. Many lumps are benign, but it’s important to rule out any serious conditions.
Are breast exams painful?
Breast exams are typically not painful, though you may experience some mild discomfort as the doctor palpates sensitive areas. If you feel any significant pain, let your doctor know during the exam.
How often should I get a breast exam?
We recommend getting a breast exam once a year as part of your routine preventive care. If you have a higher risk of breast cancer or other concerns, your doctor may suggest more frequent exams or additional imaging.
Breast Exams in Fayetteville
At Dr. Celia Mendes’s GYN practice in Fayetteville, NC, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive breast exams as part of our commitment to your overall health. Schedule your appointment today for a professional breast exam and take charge of your breast health.