A breast self-exam is a way for you to examine your breasts for lumps or anything else that doesn't seem normal. It is recommended that a breast self-exam be performed monthly, and it is important that you tell your doctor about any unusual breast symptoms as soon as you notice them. Print this page and keep it handy so you’ll always know how to properly examine your breasts.
Please note: This self-exam is not a substitute for periodic clinical breast examinations by a qualified physician or health care professional.
Before a mirror
- Firmly press your hands down on your hips to tighten your chest muscles
- Look carefully for any changes in the size, shape, or contour of your breasts
- Check for anything unusual: discharge, puckering, dimpling, or changes in skin texture
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Lying down
- Lie flat on your back, and place your left hand behind your head and a pillow under your left shoulder
- Use the finger pads of the 3 middle fingers on your right hand to make overlapping dime-sized circular motions to feel your left breast
- Apply 3 different levels of pressure, light, medium, and firm, with your finger pads to check the breast tissue
- Use each pressure level to feel for lumps before moving to the next spot
- Start by your armpit and move down to just below your breast
- Use the same circular motions and an up-and-down pattern to cover the entire breast area
- Repeat on your right breast using your left hand
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Sitting or standing
- Raise your arm slightly
- Use the same circular motions with your finger pads to examine each underarm
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This self-exam is not a substitute for periodic exams by a qualified doctor.
Report any changes or lumps to your doctor.