How to do a breast self-exam

In the Shower

Fingers flat, move gently over every part of each breast. Use your right hand to examine the left breast, left hand for the right breast. Check for any lump, hard knot, or thickening. Carefully observe any changes in your breasts.

Before a Mirror

Inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead.

Look for any changes in the contour of each breast, a swelling, a dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Then rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women's breasts do.

Lying Down

Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head. With the fingers of your left hand flat, press your right breast gently in small circular motions, moving vertically or in a circular pattern covering the entire breast.

Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.

When Do I Do It?

Breast Self Exam should be performed a few days after your period ends. Remember this – "When Your 'Friend' is gone, Grab your Girls." This will help you to remember the time each month that you should be performing self-exam.

REMEMBER! Your breast health is in your hands! Check Yourself Out! Feel Your Boobies! Touch Your Ta Ta’s! Grab Your Girls! It’s in Your Hands!

Information sources: NationalBreastCancer.org, e-medicinehealth.com, breastintentions.org