Today is National No Bra Day! Here is How You Can Celebrate.

Another day, another made up national holiday but this time, one with a true purpose.

National No Bra Day promotes breast cancer awareness. It also helps raise money for research. Many women who have survived breast cancer are unable to go without a bra as they need it to hold their prosthesis after surgery. Additionally, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and No Bra Day should serve as a reminder for all women to be screened for breast cancer. Most types of breast cancer can be treated if caught early. 

Screenings & breast exams are a part of the early detection process. 

The first line of defense is a monthly self-breast exam. The best time to do a breast exam is about 10 days after the onset of your menstrual cycle. However, fickle as breasts can be, we do become familiar with them even if they are lumpy. We learn what’s healthy or not. For example, they change texture over the month.
Sticking to the same time each month will provide a more accurate exam.  For those who don’t menstruate, choose a day of the month always to perform the exam.

As you become more familiar with the shape & texture of your breast, take note of any changes. Use the mirror to help you, too. Dimpling, swelling & redness will be signs to look for.  

When you schedule an annual appointment with your physician, make sure a breast exam is completed, too. Tell your doctor about any changes. If you or your doctor notices any signs, the doctor can order tests, including a sonogram or mammogram.

Finally, a preventative mammogram is the last line of defense. Today’s mammograms offer more vivid detail of the breast tissue. Baseline mammograms are provided around the age of 35 unless family history indicates sooner. The baseline mammogram provides a comparison view for your physician should something develop later down the line. Women age 40 & over are recommended to receive yearly preventative mammograms. 

Got mine last week & while the wait for results is killer, not getting one has way more serious implications.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NoBraDay

Take charge of your health & make an appointment for a mammogram. Encourage others to do the same. Learn the best time & way to complete a self-breast exam. Other ways to participate include:

• Set a reminder in your calendar to complete monthly breast exams
• Share your experience with getting a mammogram. Take the mystery out of the exam for others. Below is a video of what you can expect during your mammogram exam.
• Organize a fundraiser. Whether it’s for those without health coverage or to support breast cancer research, you will be making a difference.
• Make a list of questions to ask your doctor. It will help you to approach the subject of breast exams more easily.

Use #NoBraDay or #NationalNoBraDay when posting on social media.  Make a contribution to the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Did I miss anything? Please share your experience so that others can benefit from it ❤️