Breast Self-Exam in 5 Steps

Feeling your breasts is not a recognized screening method, but it is a simple, free way to build your body awareness. That way you notice sooner when something changes. It is best to do it once a month, about a week after your period starts. When and How Often to Examine Your Breasts

Here is how to do it:

1. Look. Stand in front of the mirror with your arms relaxed. Notice the shape, size, skin, and nipples.
2. Raise your arms. Lift your arms above your head and look again to see whether anything pulls inward or appears different as you move.
3. Feel while standing. Using the flat of the opposite hand, systematically feel the entire breast in circular motions, including the edges and the armpit.
4. Check the nipple. Press gently and watch for any discharge, especially bloody or clear discharge from just one side.
5. Feel while lying down. Lying down flattens the breast and makes the deeper tissue easier to feel. Examine the whole breast here too.

If you find something new that is still there after your next period, schedule an appointment. It is usually harmless, but a professional should be the one to assess it.