Breast exams are more than meets the eye. Not only did we learn the proper technique (all women should learn! Women: 1/8 chance of breast cancer in life time, 1/8 die of breast cancer), but I also realized what a mammogram consisted of. Wow, did not know that they squish you vertically! In the words of the doctor, they "crank it down!" Oh boy.
Well, during the training session, they had model breasts to try on. Apparently, you're supposed to go up and down the breast from the center of chest to the arm pit like you're "mowing the lawn" - another direct quote. You're supposed to use the pads of your fingers and move in dime-sized circles first lightly, and gradually deeper, then continue mowing. Man, those little nodules are sneaky little buggers! At our table, we managed to feel one, but missed three in the model breast! Got to work on our techniques more.
Of course, after getting home, I had to try it out for real. Hm, it was very difficult, and even scary. I just find bumps everywhere. Ugh. I guess a real nodule is supposed to be harder or more of a concentrated spot? ...I guess I'll learn more later.
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