As an oncologist, one of the most important things I discuss with my patients is the importance of early detection in breast cancer. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, and one way to stay proactive about breast health is by performing regular self-breast exam. While a self-breast exam is not a substitute for regular mammograms or clinical exams, it’s a useful tool to help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can spot any changes early on.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-breast exam, explain what to look for, and emphasize why this simple practice can play a crucial role in maintaining your breast health.
Why is a Self-Breast Exam Important?
A self-breast exam allows you to detect any changes in your breasts early, such as lumps, thickenings, or other abnormalities. While many breast changes are not cancerous, it’s still important to consult with your healthcare provider if you notice anything unusual. By performing regular self-breast exams, you develop a sense of what’s normal for your body, making it easier to recognize changes if they occur.
Self-breast exams are easy to perform and can be done in the comfort of your home, without any special equipment. I recommend doing this once a month, preferably a few days after your menstrual period when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Self-Breast Exam
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-breast exam:
1. Visual Inspection in the Mirror
The first step in your self-breast exam is to visually inspect your breasts in front of a mirror. Look at your breasts for any visible changes in shape, size, or symmetry.
- What to look for: Changes in the shape or size of the breasts, any visible swelling, dimpling of the skin, or nipple changes (such as inversion or discharge).
After observing your breasts with your arms relaxed, raise your arms above your head and check for any changes in how your breasts look.
- Why this matters: Changes in skin texture (such as dimpling or puckering) or alterations in breast shape may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
2. Examine While Lying Down
Next, perform the self-breast exam while lying down. This position helps spread the breast tissue evenly across your chest, making it easier to feel for any lumps or thickened areas.
- Lie down flat on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head.
- Use the pads of your three middle fingers from your left hand to feel your right breast.
When performing the exam, use a firm, smooth touch with the pads of your fingers, keeping them flat and together. You’ll want to follow a circular motion, covering the entire breast from top to bottom, and side to side.
- Tips: Start by using light pressure to examine the superficial tissue, then increase to medium and firm pressure to feel the deeper tissues closer to the ribs.
Repeat the same steps for your left breast, this time using your right hand to examine your left side.
3. Feel for Lumps or Unusual Changes
As you perform the self-breast exam, you are primarily feeling for lumps, knots, or hard masses that were not previously present. While many lumps are benign (non-cancerous), any unusual lump should be checked by your healthcare provider.
- What to check for: Lumps, hard masses, thickened areas, or any new textures that feel different from the rest of the breast tissue.
- Key points: Some women naturally have lumpy breast tissue, which may not be harmful. However, getting familiar with what’s normal for you will make it easier to identify new or unusual changes.
4. Check the Nipples
Another important part of the self-breast exam is to check your nipples for any discharge or changes. Gently squeeze each nipple to see if any fluid comes out.
- What to look for: Nipple discharge (especially if it’s bloody or clear), changes in the appearance of the nipple, or if one nipple becomes inverted when it was not previously.
What to Do If You Find a Lump or Notice a Change
If you detect any changes, don’t panic. Most breast changes are not cancerous. However, it’s always a good idea to contact your doctor to discuss any concerns or abnormalities. Early detection is crucial for addressing any potential issues, so it’s better to be proactive about getting an evaluation.
Your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy to determine whether further investigation is needed. Remember, finding a lump doesn’t automatically mean cancer, it simply means you should take the next step in getting it checked out.
When and How Often Should You Perform a Self-Breast Exam?
I recommend performing the exam once a month. If you’re still menstruating, it’s best to do the exam a few days after your period ends, when your breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender. For women who are no longer menstruating, choosing a set day each month (such as the first or last day of the month) can help you remember to do it regularly.
By making this part of your monthly routine, you can stay attuned to changes in your breast tissue, which can aid in early detection of any potential problems.
Self-Breast Exams as Part of Your Overall Health Routine
While they are a valuable tool in breast health, they should be used in combination with regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Self-exams can help you become familiar with your body, but mammograms are essential for detecting lumps or abnormalities that may not be palpable. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will ensure that you’re taking a comprehensive approach to breast cancer prevention.
Conclusion
Performing regular self-breast exams is an empowering way to take control of your breast health and detect any potential changes early. While most breast changes are not cancerous, being proactive about your health can help catch any issues before they become more serious. Remember, if you notice anything unusual during your exam, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. By making it part of your routine, you can stay informed about your health and contribute to early detection efforts in the fight against breast cancer.
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