Breast Self-Exam Instructions
Early detection of breast cancer can help save lives. A simple, easy self-exam can be a helpful way to monitor breast health at home. Follow these simple steps:
- Standing in front of a mirror, look for any visible changes on both breasts, nipples and the surrounding areas. Notable changes could include redness, warmth, discharge or dimpling of the skin.
- While still standing, put one arm behind your head and use the other hands three middle fingers to gently examine the area surrounding the breast. Switch sides and repeat on the other breast.
- Lay down and repeat the palpation process- one arm behind head, gently feel for lumps with other hand, switch sides.
- Check under both armpits for any swollen lumps.
Even small changes may warrant a call to the doctor and follow up appointment. Make a routine of doing a breast self-exam each month, ideally after the menstrual cycle ends (once hormonal fluctuations that can swelling, tenderness and temporary lumpiness subside).
