A Self-Advocate’s Guide To Breast Exams

Transcript:

A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Breast Health

Created by the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council

How common is breast cancer?

• 1 in 8 females in the United States get breast cancer.

• Males can also get breast cancer, but it is less common.

• The earlier you find cancer, the easier it is for healthcare providers to treat.

You can check at home in the shower or in a mirror.

What is breast cancer?

• Breast cancer is the 2nd most diagnosed cancer in women.

• Your healthcare provider will look for this cancer by checking your breasts, nipples, and armpit.

How do you prevent breast cancer?

• By age 40, most people with breasts should get an x-ray of their breasts at least every other year.

• An x-ray is the best way to find breast cancer.

The x-ray machine is called a mammogram.

• The mammogram machine presses one breast at a time between two flat panels.

• It may be a little uncomfortable.

• You can bring a support person with you.

• You have the right to ask questions.

• You have the right to say “yes” or “no” to medical procedures—even if it could save your life.

How do you check for breast cancer?

During a check-up:

• Your healthcare provider may do a breast exam.

• They look at your breasts while you are sitting up and touch your breasts while you are lying down.

• If they find a hard lump or other signs, they will do more tests.

• If you test positive for cancer, you and your provider will make a plan for treatment.

How can you do a breast self-exam?

In a mirror:

• Put your hands on your hips and bend forward a little.

• Look at the size and shape of each breast and nipple.

• Check for unusual swelling, lumps, dimpling (looks like an orange peel), scaly skin, or other changes.

• Check for nipple changes, such as pain or color change.

In the shower:

• Put your left arm behind your head.

• Use the 3 middle fingers of your right hand to do your breast self-exam.

• Press your fingers against your breast and trace your breast using an up and down pattern.

• Repeat on the other breast, switching arms.

It is good to know what your breasts look and feel like so you can notice any changes.
If you see any changes or have a question, ask your healthcare provider.

For more information:

• Contact your healthcare provider or nearest Planned Parenthood.

• In Vermont, contact You First at 800-508-2222 to learn more about eligibility for free screening.

What is The Inclusive Healthcare Partnership Project (IHPP)?

IHPP believes everyone should have the tools they need to support their own health.
This includes:

• Health information that is easy to understand

• Healthcare providers trained to work with people with a wide range of disabilities

IHPP has two goals:

1. Create plain language health info by and for people with developmental disabilities

2. Help nurses, doctors, and providers communicate effectively with neurodiverse patients

Last revised: January 2025

The Inclusive Healthcare Partnership Project is supported in part by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), with a financial assistance award totaling $95,319. The contents do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS or the U.S. Government.