The Canadian Living complete breast guide

Mammograms
A mammogram is an X-ray that can detect small suspect areas in the breast. Women aged 50 to 69 are advised to have a mammogram every two years, says Dr. Verna Mai, director of screening programs for Cancer Care Ontario. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer (on their mother's or their father's side) should have a mammogram every year, and your family doctor may suggest that screening begin at a younger age. Provincial breast screening programs provide women 50 years and over with mammography, a physical examination of breasts, information on breast self-examination and a reminder to return for screening.

Support your breasts
Whether you love lacy lingerie or prefer utilitarian styles, proper bra size is important, says Liliana Mann of Linea Intima lingerie stores in Toronto. It's smart to have a professional fitting because a bra that fits properly makes you feel and look your best. Comfort is another huge plus in a bra, and manufacturers are stepping up to the plate. Playtex has a Memory Foam bra that reacts to your body's temperature and movements and conforms to your unique shape, while WonderBra has developed a Comfort Closure bra with foam padding that cushions your back and smooth edges, which eliminates itching and scratching.

Take it off!
The job of the breasts' lymphatic system is to help eliminate toxins. Breast movement, exercise and deep breathing help pump lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic vessels, so go braless for as much of the day as possible, says Sat Dharam Kaur, a naturopathic doctor in Owen Sound, Ont., and author of The Complete Natural Medicine Guide to Breast Cancer (Robert Rose, 2003). If large breasts make going braless uncomfortable, switch to a soft bra that has built-in comfort features such as a wide elasticized band that sits gently under the breasts. Deep-breathing exercises, as well as arm movements, help keep the lymphatic system working as well.

Bras for sports
A supportive bra during exercise helps combat premature sagging -- and helps maximize workouts, because you feel comfortable. The wrong bra (or no bra) increases your risk of "jogger's nipple," caused by friction from clothing when you exercise.

Features to look for in a good sports bra:
• Separate cups, or forms.
• Wide shoulder straps.
• Low stretchability for support.
• Bounce control (go through various motions to make sure it performs for you).
• Snap closure for ease in putting the bra on and taking it off.
• Breathable fabrics, such as mesh, or fleece-lined cups to reduce dampness and alleviate chafing.

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