Breast self exams

A breast self exam is an easy way for women to find out what might need the attention of a doctor. When you know what is normal, you can better recognize change that means you should not wait to see your health care provider.

A self exam once a month is a good plan. Pick a time when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or sore. You can ask your health care provider for help learning how to give yourself a self exam.

Also see pages 257‑259 of the CareOregon Healthwise® Handbook for self-exam instructions. This book is free to CareOregon members. Ask us for one at 503‑416‑4100; toll‑free, 1‑800‑224‑4840; or TTY/TDD, 1‑877‑416‑4161. Only one per family, please.

Remember, you still need to have your regularly scheduled mammogram or clinical breast exams. CareOregon recommends one every one to two years if you are 40 to 50; every year if you are over 50.

Your CareOregon member materials gives a list of all recommended preventive care screenings and exams. Look in the CareOregon handbooks for the Oregon Health Plan, Standard or Plus (Medicaid) in the ”Health and Wellness“ section, or look in the CareOregon Advantage Summary of Benefits (Medicare) under ”Preventive Services.“