How to do a Breast Self-Exam

Self examination should be done regularly around 7-10 days after your menstrual cycle.

Step 1

Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.

Here's what you should look for in your breasts:

Should be their usual size, shape, and color
Evenly shaped without visible distortion or swelling

If you see any of the following changes, bring them to your doctor's attention:

Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin
A nipple that has changed position or an inverted nipple (pushed inward instead of sticking out)
Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

Step 2

Raise your arms and look for the same changes.

Step 3

Look for any fluid coming out of one or both nipples (this could be a watery, milky, or yellow fluid or blood).

Step 4

Next, feel your breasts while lying down, using your right hand to feel your left breast and then your left hand to feel your right breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few finger pads of your hand, keeping the fingers flat and together. Use a circular motion, about the size of a quarter.

Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side — from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Step 5

Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Repeat above steps

What to do if you find a lump?

Don’t panic if you think you feel a lump in your breast. Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts all the time, and most breast lumps turn out to be benign (not cancer).

Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you’ve noticed a lump or other breast change that is new and worrisome.

Self Examination