Early Detection Saves Lives: Mastering the Self-Breast Exam
By Gloria Addo
A breast self-exam is a regular, step-by-step examination of your breasts, allowing you to detect changes. While mammograms are effective, home-based regular checks are preferred for familiarity.
There are a few different ways to perform a breast exam at home:
- Looking in a mirror: Take off your shirt and bra and stand in front of a mirror. Put your arms down by your sides. Look for any changes in breast shape, breast swelling, dimpling in your skin, or changes in the position of your nipples. Next, raise your arms high over your head and look for the same things. Finally, put your hands on your hips and press firmly to make your chest muscles flex. Look for the same changes again. Be sure to look at both breasts.
- Manual breast self-exam while standing: Remove your shirt and bra. Use your right hand to examine your left breast, then vice versa. With the pads of your three middle fingers, press on every part of one breast. Use light pressure, then medium, then firm. Feel for any lumps, thick spots, or other changes. A circular pattern may help you make sure you hit every spot. Then, press the tissue nearest your armpit. Be sure to check under your areola (area around your nipple) and then squeeze your nipple to check for discharge. Repeat the steps on the other side. Many people perform a standing self-exam while in the shower.
- Manual breast self-exam while lying down: When you lie down, your breast tissue spreads more evenly. This makes it a good position to feel for changes, especially if your breasts are large. Lie down and put a pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, apply the same technique as option 2, using the pads of your middle fingers to press all parts of your breast tissue and under your armpit. Finally, swap the pillow to the other side, and check your other breast and armpit. Be sure to check under your areola and then squeeze your nipple to check for discharge.
Keep in mind that your breast tissue extends to your armpit, collarbone, and top of your abdomen. Your breast tissue isn’t just your breast cleavage and nipples.
Menstruating individuals should perform a breast self-exam after their period ends, while those in menopause or irregular periods can choose a consistent, easy-to-remember day. Monthly breast self-exams can detect signs of infection, disease, or cancer by recognizing normal breast appearance and sensation however they should not replace regular provider exams and mammograms.
