Regular breast self-exams are an important part of breast health awareness, although research hasn't definitively proven they reduce breast cancer mortality. Knowing your breasts' normal look and feel makes it easier to notice any changes. This guide outlines how to perform a self-exam.
When to Perform a Self-Exam
The best time to perform a monthly self-exam is about 3 to 5 days after your period starts, when your breasts are less tender. Choose the same time each month for consistency. [Source: Mount Sinai]
How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
The following steps describe how to perform a thorough self-exam:
1. Visual Inspection
- Step 1: Stand in front of a mirror, arms at your sides. Observe your breasts for any changes in size, shape, symmetry, or skin texture (e.g., dimpling, puckering, redness, swelling). [Source: NHS]
- Step 2: Raise your arms above your head and repeat the observation. [Source: NHS]
- Step 3: Gently squeeze each nipple, checking for any discharge. [Source: MedlinePlus]
2. Manual Examination (Lying Down)
- Step 1: Lie down with one arm above your head.
- Step 2: Use the pads of the three middle fingers of your opposite hand to feel your breast in a circular motion, using light, medium, and firm pressure.
- Step 3: Cover the entire breast, including the armpit area.
- Step 4: Repeat this process for the other breast. [Source: Breastcancer.org, National Breast Cancer Foundation]
3. Manual Examination (Standing)
- Step 1: Remove your shirt and bra. [Source: Multiple Sources]
- Step 2: Use your right hand to examine your left breast, and vice versa.
- Step 3: Use the pads of your three middle fingers to press on every part of each breast, using light, medium, and firm pressure. [Source: Multiple Sources]
What to Look and Feel For
Look for changes such as:
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Nipple changes (inversion, discharge)
- Redness, swelling, or warmth
- Breast lump or thickening
Feel for any lumps, bumps, or areas of thickening that are different from the surrounding tissue.
Important Considerations
- A self-exam is not a substitute for regular professional breast exams and mammograms recommended by your healthcare provider.
- While regular self-exams are encouraged, research hasn't conclusively shown they improve breast cancer survival. [Source: American Cancer Society]
- If you notice any changes or abnormalities, consult your doctor immediately.
