Self breast examination
Q: How is a self breast exam performed?
A: The self breast exam should be performed monthly. In a menstruating woman, it is best to perform the exam at the completion of a menstrual cycle. The exam should involve inspection and palpation.
Looking (inspection)
The self-exam should always be done in good light. Stand or sit in front of a mirror. Place arms at your sides. Look for dimpling, puckering, or redness of the breast skin, discharge from the nipples, or changes in breast size or shape. Look for the same signs with your hands pressed tightly on your hips and then with your arms raised high.
Feeling (palpation)
Lie flat on your back. Place a folded towel or a pillow under your left shoulder. Place your left hand under or over your head. You also can feel for changes when you are standing. With your right hand, keeping the fingers flat and together, gently feel your left breast without pressing too hard. Use one of these methods. Then lower your right arm and do the exam on the other breast.
2. Lines. Begin in the underarm area. Slowly move your fingers down until they are below your breast. Move your fingers closer toward your nipple and go slowly back up, using the same motion. Use this up-and-down pattern all the way across your breast.
3. Wedge. Begin at the outside edge of your breast. Slowly work your way in toward the nipple, doing one wedge-shaped section at a time. Do this until the entire breast area has been examined.
Don't Forget:
• With any pattern, be sure to examine the nipples also. Gently squeeze the nipple and check for any discharge.
• Examine the upper chest area and below the armpits—these places also have breast tissue.
Call your doctor if you notice any lumps or changes in your breasts.
