How to do a breast self-exam

Steps to Breast Self-Examination

Taking charge of your health means getting to know your body. We believe monthly breast self-exams (BSE) do just that. The American Cancer Society (ACS) says regular BSEs help people become more aware of their bodies. Once you've reached your 20s, regular BSEs should be part of your regimen. If something changes, you'll notice it sooner if you're more aware of your body.

Just as your period ends (or at the same time each month if you do not have periods), check for any change in the normal look or feel of your breasts. Reports any changes to your doctor or nurse. Go for regular breast exams and ask about a mammogram.

STEP ONE: LYING DOWN

Feel for a hard lump, thickening or any change in your breast tissue. Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder Use the pads of the three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast Press using a light, medium, and firm pressure in a circular motion Follow an up and down pattern Feel for changes in your breast, above and below your collarbone and in your armpit area Repeat on your left breast using your right hand

These steps may be repeated while bathing or showering using soapy hands.

STEP TWO: IN FRONT OF A MIRROR

Look for changes in the shape, size, or appearance of your breasts. Look for dimpling, rash, or puckering of the skin or nipple, nipple discharge, or any change from normal. Inspect your breasts in four steps:

Hold arms at your sides Hold arms over your head Press your hands on your hips to tighten your chest muscles Bend forward with hands on your hips

Clinical Breast Exams
Starting at age 20, a trained health professional should perform a thorough exam of your breasts. Clinical breast exams should take place every three years until you reach age 40. After that, clinical breast exams should be given every year.

Mammograms
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It can detect lumps that are too small to be felt by touch. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women once they turn 40. If you have an immediate family member with breast cancer, you should begin annual mammograms sooner.

Important Note!
If breast cancer runs in your family, you are advised to begin screenings at even earlier ages. Talk with your doctor to determine when to start screenings and which procedures are appropriate for you. You should also set up a regular schedule for those screenings.