How to Examine Your Breasts

Breast self-examination (BSE) is one of three ways to detect breast cancer. The best cancer check is a breast x-ray or mammogram. The third way is a clinical breast exam.

BSE is very easy to do. Knowing how your breasts look and feel will help you notice any changes. Early detection of breast cancer is the key to successful treatment.

BSE should be done monthly. Check your breasts about a week after every period. If you don't have regular periods, do the exam at the same time every month.

Look For Changes
Hands at side.
Compare for symmetry.
Look for changes in:

color
shape

Check for:

dimpling
puckering
nipple discharge
skin changes

Hands over head.
Check front and side view for:

symmetry
puckering
dimpling

Hands on hips, press down, bend forward.
Check for:

symmetry
nipple direction
general appearance

Feel For Changes
Lie down with a towel under right shoulder; raise right arm above the head.

Examine area from:

underarm to lower bra line
across to breast bone
up to collar bone
back to armpit

Use the pads of the three middle fingers of the left hand.

Hold hand in bowed position.
Move fingers in dime-sized circles.

Use three levels of pressure:

light
medium
firm

Examine entire area using vertical strip pattern.

Now check your left breast with your right hand in the same way. If there are any lumps, knots or changes, tell your doctor right away.

American Cancer Society Guidelines for Early Detection

Breast Self-Exam:

Once a month
Age 20 and over

Clinical Exam:

See a doctor or nurse for a physical breast exam
Age 20-40, every 3 years
Over 40, every year

Mammography:

Women should have a baseline a mammogram by age 40 and then once every year.

A clinical exam with a physician at The Primary Care Center can be set up now by clicking the link to set up an appointment.

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