Feel. Know. Act: Why Every Sri Lankan Woman Should Know Her Breasts
The body speaks in signs when words are not enough.
In homes across Sri Lanka, from Galle to Kurunegala, from Kandy to Jaffna, a quiet concern is often brushed aside. Someone says, “Mother has a small lump. Maybe it’s nothing.” And just like that, the topic is dropped. No follow-up. No doctor visit. No questions asked. Yet, breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Sri Lankan women. Many women ignore small changes in their bodies until it’s too late. But what if the warning signs were already there, if we just took a moment to notice them?
Breast cancer is not always visible, and it doesn’t always run in the family. Many women who are diagnosed have no family history of the disease. Studies show that one in eight women may develop breast cancer in her lifetime, and over 40% of cases are first discovered by the women themselves, not through scans or hospital checkups, but by simple self-awareness. This is where the power of a self-breast exam becomes clear. It’s not about being afraid; it’s about being familiar with your body, knowing what’s normal for you, and recognizing when something changes.
Stop trouble before it starts.
A self-breast examination, or SBE, is a monthly habit where a woman checks her breasts for any unusual signs. It takes only a few minutes, can be done at home, and doesn’t require any equipment. The best time to do it is a few days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. If you don’t menstruate, you can simply choose a consistent day each month, such as the 1st, to build it into your routine.
There are three main ways to perform a self-exam: in the shower, in front of a mirror, and while lying down. In the shower, use the pads of your fingers to gently feel the entire breast and underarm area in small, circular motions. While standing in front of a mirror with your arms raised, look for any visible changes in the shape, size, or skin texture of your breasts, such as dimpling, swelling, or pulling in of the nipples. When lying down, place a pillow under your shoulder and use your opposite hand to feel the breast, applying light, medium, and firm pressure to check for any unusual lumps or thickening.
Knowing what to look for is key. Common warning signs include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, swelling or warmth, skin dimpling that resembles an orange peel, nipple discharge, pain that doesn’t go away, or a nipple that suddenly starts pulling inward. While not every lump is cancerous, any change should be taken seriously. Early detection gives you more treatment options and a greater chance of full recovery
In the Shower
Use your fingers to press gently in circular motions around the entire breast and armpit.
In Front of a Mirror
Raise your arms. Look for changes in shape, swelling, dimples, or nipple changes.
Lying Down
Place a pillow under your shoulder. Use your opposite hand to check the breast, pressing lightly then firmly.
Look after what you have, before you lose it.
If you do notice something unusual, the most important thing is not to panic, but also not to delay. Most breast changes are not cancer, but only a medical professional can confirm that. Seeking advice from a doctor as soon as possible is the safest course of action. The earlier a concern is addressed, the better the outcome is likely to be.
At Mediplace, we understand that for many women, the thought of going to the doctor can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer access to experienced female doctors who speak Sinhala, Tamil, and English, so you can communicate in the language you’re most comfortable with. Consultations can be done from your home, offering both privacy and peace of mind. If you’re living abroad and worried about a loved one in Sri Lanka, we can help coordinate appointments, follow-ups, and test referrals for your mother, sister, or aunt. You’ll receive updates every step of the way, so your family won’t feel alone, and neither will you.
A small monthly habit, done in private and with love, can have a lifelong impact. Taking five minutes to feel and know your body could protect your future. Let’s not wait until there’s pain or fear. Let’s choose awareness, empowerment, and action because your health is worth it.
A Small Habit Can Save a Life
So start today. Feel. Know. Act. A small step can save a life, maybe even yours.
If you’d like to speak to a doctor or book a check-up, Mediplace is here for you.
📞 Let’s Talk
Email: contact@mediplace.lk
WhatsApp or Call: +94742022692
Visit: mediplace.lk
