Breast Care Tips from your OB-GYN

Maintaining breast health is an essential part of overall wellness. Throughout life, a woman’s breasts change—from puberty and pregnancy to breastfeeding and menopause. Understanding these changes and knowing how to care for your breasts can help you feel confident, proactive, and informed.

An OB-GYN plays a key role in guiding women through breast care, early detection, and routine breast screening. Below are practical, expert-recommended breast care tips to support your long-term health.

Why Breast Care Matters

Breast health is not just about cancer prevention, it’s also about comfort, confidence, and recognizing changes early. Regular self-awareness combined with professional screenings can help detect concerns sooner, when they are often easier to treat.

Perform Regular Breast Self-Exams

A monthly breast self-exam helps you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel.

Tips for breast self-exams:

• Perform your exam once a month, ideally a few days after your menstrual cycle ends
• Look for changes in size, shape, or skin texture
• Gently feel for lumps, thickening, or tenderness
• Remember: most breast changes are benign, but awareness helps identify concerns early

If you notice something new or unusual, book an appointment for evaluation.

Schedule Professional Breast Screenings

Routine breast screening is an important part of preventive care.

Recommended screenings include:

• Clinical breast exams: Every 1–3 years in your 20s and 30s; annually after age 40
• Mammograms: Typically begin at age 40, or earlier if you have risk factors
• Breast ultrasound or MRI: May be recommended for dense breast tissue or higher-risk patients

Your OB-GYN will help determine the right screening schedule for you.

Supportive Bras and Breast Comfort

Wearing the right bra can significantly improve comfort and breast support.

• Choose a well-fitted bra to reduce strain and discomfort
• Wear a supportive sports bra during exercise
• Track cyclical breast pain, which may be related to hormonal changes

If breast pain becomes persistent or severe, discuss it with your provider.

Lifestyle Habits for Healthy Breasts

Daily habits play a powerful role in maintaining breast health.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
• Limit alcohol intake, as excessive consumption can increase breast cancer risk
• Stay physically active to support hormone balance
• Avoid smoking, which negatively affects breast and reproductive health

Don’t Forget Breast Skin Care

The skin on your breasts is sensitive and deserves attention.

• Use gentle moisturizers to prevent dryness
• Apply sunscreen when breasts are exposed to the sun
• Watch for rashes, irritation, or changes around the nipple area

When to Call Your OB-GYN

Contact OB-GYN if you notice:

• A persistent lump or thickening
• Nipple discharge, especially if clear or bloody
• Skin dimpling, redness, or puckering
• Sudden changes in breast size or shape

Early evaluation provides peace of mind and ensures prompt care if needed.

How Burlington OB-GYN Associates Can Help

At Burlington OB-GYN Associates, our experienced team provides compassionate, comprehensive breast care, including:

• Detailed breast examinations
• Referrals for Mammograms and breast ultrasounds
• Diagnostic lab testing
• Personalized care plans
• Advanced treatment options when needed

Our goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your well-woman journey.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Breast care is about being proactive. With regular breast self-exams, timely breast screening, and healthy lifestyle choices, you can take charge of your breast health.

Schedule your next appointment with Burlington OB-GYN Associates today and feel confident knowing your care is in trusted hands.