Breast Self-Examination Guide

Why Monthly Self-Examination Matters

Regular breast self-examination builds familiarity with what is normal for your body — which makes it easier to notice when something changes. Most breast changes are benign, but early detection of any concerning changes significantly improves outcomes. Monthly examination is recommended by many health organisations as a useful supplement to clinical screening.

When to Examine

The best time to examine your breasts is a few days after your period ends, when breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen. If you don't menstruate, choose the same day each month — the first of the month is an easy anchor date.

Step-by-Step Technique

Step 1 — Visual check in the mirror: Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for changes in size, shape, or contour. Check for skin changes — dimpling, puckering, redness, or changes in texture. Note any nipple changes — inversion, discharge, or unusual appearance. Repeat with arms raised above your head.

Step 2 — Lying down examination: Lie down with one arm behind your head. Using the opposite hand, use the pads of your three middle fingers to feel the breast tissue. Use small circular motions, varying pressure — light, medium, and firm — to feel different depths of tissue. Cover the entire breast area from armpit to sternum and collarbone to lower ribcage.

Step 3 — Standing examination: Repeat the examination standing up, which can make it easier to feel some areas. Many people do this in the shower where soap makes the skin easier to examine.

What to Look and Feel For

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
• Changes in size, shape, or contour of the breast
• Skin changes — dimpling, puckering, redness, or unusual texture
• Nipple changes — new inversion, discharge (especially bloody), or changes in appearance
• Persistent pain in one area (though most breast pain is benign)

What to Do if You Notice a Change

Most breast changes are not cancer — but any new change that doesn't resolve in a few days deserves a conversation with your doctor. Don't wait and hope it resolves. Early assessment means better outcomes. Your doctor may recommend imaging such as a mammogram or ultrasound.

Self-Examination for Augmented Breasts

Breast implants do not prevent self-examination, but they do change what you're feeling for. Push the implant gently toward the chest wall with your fingers, then examine the tissue above and around the implant. Tell your doctor you have implants when seeking screening — some imaging techniques work better than others.