October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to talk about something that could literally save your life: knowing how to check your own breasts. Breast self-exams are simple, free, and take just a few minutes. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Self-Exams Matter
Regular breast self-exams help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. When you know what’s normal for you, you’re much more likely to notice something unusual early. And early detection makes a huge difference. When breast cancer is caught early, the five-year survival rate is 99%.
When to Do It
Pick a consistent time each month. For women who still get periods, the best time is a few days after your period ends, when breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. For women past menopause, pick the same day each month – like the first day of the month.
Step 1: Look in the Mirror
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in size, shape, or contour. Check for dimpling, puckering, or changes in the skin texture. Repeat this with your arms raised above your head and then with your hands on your hips, pressing firmly.
Step 2: Check Lying Down
Lie down on your back. Use your right hand to feel your left breast, and vice versa. Keep your fingers flat and together. Use a circular motion, about the size of a quarter, moving from the outside in. Make sure to cover the entire breast area, from your collarbone to the bottom of your rib cage, and from your armpit to your breastbone.
Apply three different pressure levels with each circle: light pressure for the tissue closest to the skin, medium pressure for the middle tissue, and firm pressure to feel the deeper tissue.
Step 3: Check in the Shower
Your skin is slippery and relaxed in the shower, which can make it easier to feel for changes. Use the same circular motion technique. Many women find this the easiest time to do a thorough check.
What You’re Looking For
Lumps or hard knots that feel different from the surrounding tissue. Changes in breast size or shape. Dimpling or puckering of the skin. Nipple discharge (especially if it’s bloody or clear fluid). Redness, swelling, or warmth. A nipple that’s turned inward.
When to See a Doctor
If you find a lump, don’t panic. Most breast lumps are not cancer – about 80% turn out to be benign cysts or fibrous tissue. But you should have any new lump checked by a healthcare provider within a few weeks.
A Note on Mammograms
Self-exams are not a replacement for mammograms. Mammograms can detect cancers that are too small to feel. Most guidelines recommend starting regular mammograms at age 40-45. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.
Take five minutes this month. It could save your life.