A few minutes each month can make a lifetime of difference.
Being in tune with your body is important for many aspects of your health, this includes your breast health. It is very important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel and to report any changes to your health care provider right away.
How often should I do a self exam?
- If you still menstruate, examine yourself a few days after your monthly period.
- If you no longer menstruate, examine yourself on a specific day of the month.
- If you are taking hormones, check with your health care provider to determine the best time for monitoring.
There are several ways to perform a self-breast exam. These are commonly used methods.
Standing self exam
Remove your shirt and bra. Raise one hand above your head and use your right hand to examine your left breast, then vice versa. With the pads of your three middle fingers, press on every part of one breast. Use light pressure, then medium, then firm. Feel for any lumps, thick spots or other changes. A circular pattern may help you make sure you hit every spot. Then, press the tissue nearest your armpit. Be sure to check under your areola (area around your nipple) and then squeeze your nipple to check for discharge. Repeat the steps on the other side. Note: many people perform a standing self-exam while in the shower.
mirror self exam
Take off your shirt and bra and stand in front of a mirror. Put your arms down by your sides. Look for any changes in breast shape, breast swelling, dimpling in your skin or changes in the position of your nipples. Next, raise your arms high over your head and look for the same things. Finally, put your hands on your hips and press firmly to make your chest muscles flex. Look for the same changes again. Be sure to look at both breasts.
lay flat self exam
When you lie down, your breast tissue spreads more evenly. This makes it a good position to feel for changes, especially if your breasts are large.
Lie down and put a pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, apply the same technique as the standing method, using the pads of your middle fingers to press all parts of your breast tissue and under your armpit. Finally, swap the pillow to the other side, and check your other breast and armpit. Be sure to check under your areola and then squeeze your nipple to check for discharge. Keep in mind that your breast tissue extends to your armpit, collarbone and top of your abdomen. Your breast tissue isn’t just your breast cleavage and nipples.