While mammograms and clinical exams are crucial, you can also play an important role in your breast health by doing simple checks at home.
A regular breast self-check can help you spot changes early — and might just detect something others could miss.
Know Your Breasts
Familiarize yourself with your breasts by regularly observing their shape, size, and feel. This makes it easier to notice anything unusual.
Look Closely in the Mirror
Stand in front of a mirror with your hands on your hips and look for visible changes such as dimpling, swelling, or asymmetry.
Raise Your Arms
Repeat the visual check with your arms raised and while lifting each breast gently. Check for puckering or changes in the skin.
Feel While in the Shower
Use the pads of your fingers to feel your breasts in the shower when your skin is slippery. This helps your fingers glide over the skin to detect irregularities.
Use the Spiral Technique
Start at the nipple and work outward in circles, covering the entire breast area including up toward the collarbone and out toward the armpits.
Check the Nipples
Gently squeeze each nipple to check for any unusual discharge or lumps behind the nipple.
Pay Attention to Swelling or Soreness
Unexpected swelling, redness, or tenderness outside your menstrual cycle could be a warning sign to get checked.
Pick the Right Time
The best time for breast checks is a few days after your period ends when your breasts are less tender. If you don’t menstruate, pick a fixed day each month.
Learn What’s Normal for You
Some women naturally have lumpier breasts. The key is to spot changes over time rather than compare to others.
Remember Most Lumps Aren’t Cancer
Most breast lumps turn out to be non-cancerous. Still, it’s important to have any changes professionally evaluated.
This article is based on information from Healthline