How to Do a Breast Self-Examination?

In the Shower

1. Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast.
2. Use your right hand to examine left breast, left hand for right breast.
3. Check for any lump, hard knot or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts.

Before a Mirror

1. Stand in front of the mirror with both arms by your side and look closely at both of your breast
2. Look for changes in size, color or texture.( these may be signs of inflammatory Breast Cancer)
3. Look for any changes in contour of each breast, a swelling, a dimpling of skin or changes in the nipple. Then rest palm on hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match - few women's breasts do.

Lying Down

1. Place pillow under right shoulder, right arm behind your head. With fingers of left hand flat, press right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast.
2. Pay attention to any change (lumps, bumpy texture. Tenderness).
3. Use light, medium and firm pressure. Gently press the nipple and check for discharge and changes in the nipple itself.
4. After you examine your breast, move to your underarm ( lymph node area) and look for changes there.
5. Follow the same procedure on your left side.

Tips

1. Examine your entire breast & under arm area. If you do notice any changes or lumps don’t panic. Most lumps are benign fibro adenomas or cysts.
2. If you examine your breast every month you become familiar with the way they feel and look. That makes it easier to notice any changes.
3. Make sure to tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts.