Dr. Carys Sonnenberg, a respected GP specializing in women’s health and founder of the Rowena Health Menopause Clinic, is urging women to perform three essential health checks monthly. She recommends using the start of each month as a convenient reminder to conduct these important examinations.

Dr. Sonnenberg, who also shares her expertise on her popular TikTok account @Rowenahealth_menopause, suggests that even if the first day of this month has already passed, it’s never too late to start. Her advice serves as a prompt to adopt a ‘first of the month’ routine for future checks.

In her informative video, Dr. Carys advises, “The first of the month is an excellent time to check your chest, examine your vulva, and inspect any moles on your body, including those on your head.” She emphasizes the importance of familiarity with one’s own body, adding, “Understanding what’s normal for you is crucial.”

Dr. Sonnenberg, a general practitioner and menopause expert, highlights the CoppaFeel! website as a valuable resource. It offers guidance on how to properly check your chest and identify any issues that should be reported to a GP.

She suggests using a mirror or enlisting help to check areas like the back, where changing skin moles may be less visible, and advises examining the scalp for any irregularities. “I hope this information is helpful,” she concludes.

CoppaFeel!, a breast cancer awareness charity, champions the practice of monthly self-examinations. They note, “Regular checks help you understand what’s typical for your breasts, pecs, or chest.”

Among its many online resources, CoppaFeel! has a webpage that highlights the symptoms of breast cancer, reports the Mirror. The charity states: “Be aware of changes to your breasts and chest that might be signs of breast cancer.

“Getting into the habit of checking your chest every month is an easy way to stay on top of this. It’s also important to understand that some of these changes happen naturally, like during your monthly cycle.”

Signs of breast cancer could include:

• Skin changes such as puckering or skin dimpling
• Unusual lump or swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone
• Unusual lumps and thickening
• Liquid coming from your nipple
• Crusting or rash on your nipple or around your nipple
• Nipple is pulled inwards or changes direction
• Sudden change in breast size or shape
• Constant, unusual pain in your breast, pec, or armpit

According to CoppaFeel!, secondary symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, feeling unwell and being sick, loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, and feeling tired and lacking energy. These symptoms might not indicate breast cancer, but the charity says it’s important to get in touch with your GP if you notice any symptoms. Always speak to your GP about any health concerns.