How to do a breast self-exam

Early detection is key. ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ [Healthline]( [Wellness Wire]( In a Nutshell Did you know that breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women (behind skin cancer)? Try not to let that fact scare you. [90.8%]( of women with breast cancer survive for 5 years after diagnosis, regardless of the stage. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, today we’re offering step-by-step guides on how to screen yourself physically and visually. • [Can essential oils relieve inflammation?]( • [Common causes of forgetfulness]( • [Discover your ideal running heart rate]( Save the tatas, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline Written by Morgan Mandriota October 2, 2024 • 3 min read [A step-by-step guide to physical and visual breast exams]( what’s got us buzzing [A step-by-step guide to physical and visual breast exams]( [Early detection]( plays a key role in protecting your health when it comes to breast cancer (or any type of cancer). Annual screenings are recommended starting at age 45, but [recommendations]( may vary across organizations and depending on factors like if you have a gene mutation, denser breast tissue, or a family history of breast cancer. [Knowing the signs and symptoms]( and performing regular breast self-exams don’t replace in-office screenings, but they can both help you take note of any changes in the meantime. Here’s how to perform a visual exam: - Stand topless in front of a mirror. - Inspect your breasts for: - changes in size, symmetry, or shape - dimpling, bulging, puckering of the skin - nipples that are inverted or changed position - asymmetrical ridges at the bottom - redness, soreness, a rash, or swelling - Look for these signs in these different ways: - with your hands on your hips - with your arms over your head - while lifting one breast at a time Here’s how to perform a physical exam: - Use the pads of your fingers to inspect your breasts while lying down. Your fingers may glide across your skin more easily with soapy water in the shower. - Starting at your nipple, take your time using varying pressure to massage your fingers over your breasts in a spiral pattern, searching for any [new lumps]( or changes in skin texture. - Put one arm over your head while massaging your breast with the other hand. - Make your way to the top of your breast near the collarbone, the center of your breastbone, and the sides near your armpits. - Lightly squeeze your nipples to check for any discharge. If your breasts feel and look the way they usually do, then there’s no need to take action. Even if you find a lump, the vast majority are benign, so try not to worry too much. Speak with your doctor if you notice any changes or concerns during your self-exams to see if further testing is needed. To learn more about breast cancer, including topics around early detection and new diagnoses, sign up for our Breast Cancer newsletter with one-click below. 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