Monthly breast self-exam —
do it yourself

It is important to know how your breasts normally look and feel. Examine your breasts monthly and report any changes to your doctor. The American Cancer Society recommends regular breast self-exam (BSE) so that women can become familiar with how their breasts normally feel so it's easier to detect any changes. It's best to do a BSE when the breasts aren't swollen or tender. Tell your doctor right away if you find any changes.

5 steps to your monthly breast self-exam

1. In the shower. Raise your right arm. Use the finger pads of your left hand to touch every part of your right breast. Feel gently for any lumps or changes under the skin. Then raise your left arm and use your right hand to examine your left breast.
2. Before a mirror. Place your arms at your sides. Check both breasts for anything unusual — discharge, puckering, dimpling, or changes in skin texture. Clasp your hands behind your head and look carefully for any changes in the shape or contour of your breasts. Gently squeeze both nipples and look for discharge.
3. Lying down. Lie flat on your back, with your left arm over your head and a pillow under your left shoulder. Put your left hand behind your head. Use your right hand to begin touching your left breast gently but firmly.
4. Start in your armpit. Start in your armpit and move down to just below your breast. Now move your fingers and move up again. Continue this up-and-down pattern until you have covered the area.
5. Standing up. Rest your arm on a firm surface and use the same up-and- down motion to examine the area between the breast and the underarm, and the underarm itself.

This self-exam is not a substitute for periodic examinations by a qualified physician. Report any lumps or changes to your physician.