How to:
Breast
self-exam

Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for successful treatment and recovery.

Regular screening can assist early detection, increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome. Regular mammograms are crucial, but as mammograms do not find every breast cancer, it is important to be aware of breast changes and to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Breast self-exam should be part of your monthly health care routine, and you should visit your doctor if you experience breast changes.

Breast health begins with a sense of what’s normal for your breasts (breast awareness). To promote breast health, consider doing regular breast self-exams, know what’s normal for you and when to consult your doctor. With practice, you’ll discover how your breasts vary in sensitivity and texture at different times during your menstrual cycle. Perform breast self-exams at least once a month.

Step 1

Look at your breasts in the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. Look for:

Any irregularities in the usual size, shape, and colour of the breasts
Distortion or swelling
Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin • Nipple inversion
Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling

Step 2

Raise your arms above your head and look for the same changes.

Step 3

Squeeze the nipple and check for discharge and lumps. Look for any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples (this could be a watery, milky, yellow fluid or blood).

Step 4

Lie down so the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently in small circular motions covering the entire breast area and armpit. Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Repeat these steps for your left breast.

Step 5

Finally, feel your breasts while you are standing or sitting. Many women find that the easiest way to feel their breasts is when their skin is wet and slippery, so they like to do this step in the shower. Cover your entire breast, using the same hand movements described in step 4.

Did you know?

18% of all cancer deaths worldwide are from breast cancer.