Step
One
Breast
self exam should be done approximately 5 days after the start
of your period
because there is less hormonal influence at this time on your
breast tissue. Use a calendar to keep track of when you do
your breast self exams.
Step
Two
Observe
your breasts standing in front of a mirror. Look at each breast
individually and then compare your breasts to each other.
Look for visible lumps, dimpling, irregular shape, swelling,
and nipple retraction, as well as rashes or any other abnormalities.
Observe your breasts in the following positions.
- Observe
your breasts with your arms relaxed and by your sides.
- Observe
your breasts with your arms raised over your head.
- Observe
your breasts with your arms pressed on your hips leaning
forward so that your chest muscles are flexed. (This position
makes it easier to see any dimpling that may occur.)
Step
Three
In
a standing or sitting position, raise your right arm above
your head. Use the pads of your finger tips on your left hand
to feel around your right breast. Press firmly enough to feel
for any lumps, knots, or hardening areas. Go around your breast
in a circular motion in a clockwise manner. Start on the outer
most part of your breast and move inward making sure to feel
around the underarm area. Some women find this is easiest
to do in the shower. Repeat this with your left arm above
your head and use your right arm to feel around your left
breast.
Step
Four
Lying
down with a pillow under your head, put your right arm under
your head. Use the pads of your finger tips on your left hand
to feel around your right breast. Use the same pattern you
used above to feel for any irregularities. Repeat with your
left arm behind your head.
Step
Five
Feel
around your areola and nipple. Squeeze gently to check for
any discharge.
Step
6
Report
any concerns to your health care provider. Dimpling, lumps,
nipple discharge, hardening areas, irregular shape, swelling,
and nipple retraction, or any other abnormalities may be a
sign of breast cancer.
