Regular Self Examination

1. LOOK

Whilst standing in front of the mirror with shoulders back and hands on hips.

• Check for changes in size, shape and colour of both breasts.

• Note if there is any dimpling, puckering or bulging of skin.

• Be aware of whether the nipple has changed position or if it has inverted.

• Monitor for redness, soreness, rashes or swelling.

• It is also recommended to do this whilst the arms are raised in the air.

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2. PRESS

Apply minimal pressure with the thumb and forefinger to each nipple and check for discharge (milky, yellow fluid or blood).

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3. FEEL

Feel your breast while lying down, sitting, standing or in the shower.

• Use a method which you become familiar with and record your observations on a monthly basis.

• When checking the left breast use your right hand (right breast use your left hand) and work gently on the top layer and then a little firmer as you press deeper into the tissue with your middle three fingers feeling down to the ribcage.

• Be sure to check all over your breast with a sequence you can remember. From the armpit to your cleavage, and from the top of the collarbone to top of your stomach.

• All the time feeling for irregular lumps, lumpiness or thickening particularly in one breast only.

Click Here for diagram.