7 Useful Self-Care Tips For Healthy Breasts

When it comes to breast cancer, early detection is still the best protection. That's mainly the reason why breast self-examinations are being done regularly to check for lumps and bumps.

But aside from just putting one arm up, there are a lot of proper breast-care routines worthy of investing time in to ensure that your breasts remain in good shape. 

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer starts when cells begin to grow out of control. The condition usually begins in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple while some start in the glands that make breast milk. 

These cancer cells then form a tumor around the breast area that can often be felt through touch or detected using x-ray, making it one of the most common cancer-causing deaths among women.

It’s important, however, to note that most breast lumps are benign and non-cancerous. Although these masses are not that life-threatening, this does not give women a free pass to be complacent and do just the bare minimum in taking good care of their breasts.  

As we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Cottonique brings you 7 preventive self-care tips to help reduce the risks of developing invasive breast cancer.  

1. MOISTURIZE  

Women normally spend a lot of time getting anxious about what they feel inside that they forget to take care of the outside. The breast is just like any part of your body that needs proper moisture to keep everything looking and feeling good. 

Moisturizers help prevent irritation, stretch marks, and dry skin. And since the skin around the breast is thin and sensitive, you may want to use creams made with natural materials to keep the chest area irritation-free. 

2. MASSAGE 

Ever heard of lymph nodes? These small glands, which work to help rid the body of toxins and unwanted materials, are found in the breast area. They rely on the body's movement to keep the circulation of lymph going and one way of helping these glands function is to massage the areas. 

Gently massage your breast to reduce stress in the area and improve blood circulation. It's also a relaxing way of helping you stay aware of how your breasts should feel.

3. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET 

Everyone benefits from eating healthy. Staying to a balanced diet, consisting of proper amounts of protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich food, is one way of helping your breasts get the right nourishment.  

You can also include cruciferous vegetables, dark leafy greens, or whole-grain foods in your diet. The US Department of Agriculture added that those who put organic produce in their plates are likely to have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases, such as heart disease, including heart attack and stroke and certain types of cancers. 

4. MIND YOUR WEIGHT

For many, maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging. But letting the number on the scale creep up won't be beneficial either. Weight gain begets a change in breast size. And a change in breast size causes the skin to stretch and lose shape. Furthermore, ACS also explained that being overweight or obese for women after menopause increases the risk of breast cancer. 

5. MINIMIZE VICES 

Alcohol and cigarettes are two of the most well-established dietary risk factors for breast cancer. According to BreastCancer.Org, women who have three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15% higher risk of breast cancer compared to women who don't drink at all. The same could be said for cigarettes as the risk of many cancers, including breast cancer, and other health problems, increases if you smoke.

6. MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES

You can never go wrong if you make the right choices, especially with choosing the right bras. Breasts, without proper support from comfortable fitting bras, are going to end up heading south. 

The skin and tissues in the breasts are so delicate that they might stretch and descend sooner than you would expect. To prevent this from happening, find bras that provide protection and comfort in your size and shape. 

Try finding the right one for your size in our collection of hypoallergenic bras ideal for all-day wear. See for yourself the function and fit of our roster of bras made with 100% organic cotton, completely free from latex and spandex, and dedicated to those who need an extra soft touch of comfort. After all, wearing bras that fit perfectly is best for your own comfort.

Aside from these preventative self-care tips, it is also recommended to have a breast self-examination every month. You may want to undergo a clinical breast exam when you're between the age of 20s to 30s. 

However, for women between the ages of 40 to 50, the ACS recommends that women get a  mammogram screening. Still, early detection and protect action are the best protection against breast cancer. For more information on breast cancer, whether you or a loved one are worried about developing the condition, you can visit the ACS here.  

DISCLAIMER: The information presented on Cottonique is not, and will never be, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content materials found on this site, from text, treatments, outcomes, charts, graphics, photographs, and study findings, are created and published for general informational purposes only. It should not, in any way, be construed as a standard of care to be followed by a user of the website. 

Thus, readers are encouraged to verify any information obtained from this website with other accurate references and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with their physician. As Cottonique strives to help those with allergies live with better days, the hypoallergenic apparel brand encourages everyone to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.