5 Steps for Breast Self-Exam

Learning how to self-examine your own breasts for changes is extremely important for all women — and men. Yes, men can get breast cancer, too. According to BreastCancer.Org there are five main steps to a breast self-exam. Learn more about the signs and symptoms to look out for when doing a breast self-exam. Step 1 - Check for visible differences. Study how your breasts look in front of a large mirror with your arms by your side or on your hips. Look to see any changes in the normal appearance of your breasts and nipples. Check if they are the same size, color and shape as they usually are (bearing in mind that some women see changes in breast size during her menstrual cycle). Changes that may need a doctor's opinion include puckering or dimpling of the breasts or nipples; nipple change in direction such as inverted or pointing to one side; and any rash, soreness or unexplained redness. Read more about skin irritations and dimpling as a symptom of breast cancer. Step 2 - Check in the next way for visible differences. Repeat step one, but this time raise your arms above your head. Find out more about “The Safety Touch”, an app that reminds women to self-examine their breasts. Step 3 - Check for nipple discharge. Step closer to the mirror if necessary or use a magnifying mirror to check there isn't any discharge or blood coming from the nipples. Read about breast or nipple pain as a symptom of breast cancer. Step 4 - Check for lumps. You will need to lie down with one hand under your head. With your other hand begin to check the opposite breast (left hand, right breast), and vice versa. Using your index and middle fingers to gently move around the entire breast area - from the collarbone to underneath the breast and from the armpit to the cleavage - in small circular movements. It doesn't matter what pattern you chose, be it left to right, up and down or circular so long as you meticulously cover the whole area. You will need to apply different amounts of pressure depending on the parts of the breast. For the skin and tissue underneath the breast you will need just a light touch. For the middle of the breast you will need a firmer touch. For the outer edges of the breast, apply pressure firm enough so you can feel your ribcage underneath. Read more about breast lumps or masses as a symptom of breast cancer. Step 5 - Check in another way for lumps. Health experts recommend you also check for lumps using the same fingering routine while either standing or sitting. You might find this easier to do if your skin is wet and slippery. A good time to check is while standing in a shower or sitting in a bath. Read more about breast lumps or masses as a symptom of breast cancer. Breast Cancer News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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