During the start of a New Year, many women choose to focus on their health and self-care. True self-care goes beyond setting goals in the gym, moments of relaxation, or getting the recommended daily steps in; it involves making proactive choices that support your long-term health and well-being. When it comes to breast health, this means adopting habits that empower you to stay informed and in control. By combining self-awareness with regular professional screenings, you can build a strong foundation for lifelong health.

Our Boutique Breast Imaging guide offers practical tips for women of all ages to make breast health a seamless part of their self-care routine.

Know Your Normal: The Power of Breast Self-Exams

One of the most valuable habits you can develop is becoming familiar with your own body. A regular breast self-exam helps you understand what is normal for you, making it easier to notice any changes that may occur.

The best time to perform a self-exam is a few days after your menstrual cycle ends, when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen. The goal is not to search for cancer but to learn the unique landscape of your breasts. Check for any new lumps, thickening, skin dimpling, nipple changes, or discharge. If you notice anything unusual, don’t panic—most breast changes are not cancerous. However, you should always report them to your doctor for professional evaluation.

Lifestyle Choices for a Healthier You

Many daily habits that support your overall wellness also contribute to good breast health. Integrating these choices into your routine is a powerful form of preventive care.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting processed foods, red meat, and sugar can help reduce inflammation and support a healthy weight, which are both linked to a lower risk of breast cancer.
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of good health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or dancing can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Research shows a clear link between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of breast cancer. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation—no more than one drink per day for women.
• Vitamin D Recommendation: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in breast health, with optimal levels (>50 ng/ml) linked to a 30% reduction in breast cancer risk. A daily intake of 1,000-4,000 IU of Vitamin D3 (preferred for better absorption) is recommended.
• Sleep: >9+ hours can help decrease breast cancer risk by 33%; Women should also try to decrease overnight-shift work where exposed to light.

The Role of Professional Screenings

While self-exams and a healthy lifestyle are essential, they are not substitutes for regular clinical screenings. Mammograms are the gold standard for detecting breast cancer early, often long before a lump can be felt.

At Boutique Breast Imaging, we understand that proactive health is a partnership. We provide advanced 3D mammography to give you the clearest picture of your breast health. Our compassionate team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

“Breast health is a lifelong commitment, and it starts with small, consistent actions. At Boutique Breast Imaging, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way,” shared Dr. Kathryn Pearson, Founder of Boutique Breast Imaging and Breast Imaging Radiologist.

Your New Year with a New Focus

Your health journey is personal, and the means focusing on your breast health. Whether you’re scheduling your first mammogram, have questions about your breast density, or simply want to create a proactive health plan, we are here to help.

Taking charge of your breast health is an act of self-love that pays dividends for years to come. Combine your knowledge of your body with our expertise and technology. Contact Boutique Breast Imaging today to schedule your annual screening and take a positive step forward in your self-care journey.