How to Perform a Self-Breast Exam (And Why You Should)

Many women may find themselves asking: “Why should I perform a self-breast exam?” According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 12.9% of women in the United States will develop breast cancer. Early detection and treatment is critical to ensuring that the impacts of breast cancer are minimal if you are diagnosed, helping to ensure a long and healthy life. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women 40 and older consider annual mammograms, and that all women 45 and older ensure that they perform annual mammograms. A mammogram is a critical and irreplaceable way to catch any potential malignancy early, however, breastcancer.org also recommends that regularly examining one’s own breasts through a self-exam can add a much needed extra layer of protection, diagnosis, and possible prevention.

How to Perform a Self-Breast Exam

There are several major steps to performing a self-breast exam which you should perform routinely and often. Performing a self-breast exam as frequently as once a day, especially if you are just starting to perform them, would not be excessive, since developing familiarity with your breasts is an important part of being able to detect any potential abnormalities.

First, you should look at yourself and your breasts in the mirror, with your arms on your hips and your shoulders straightened. You should be on the lookout for any redness, swelling, dimpling, bulging skin, discoloration, or any other abnormalities or contrats from your breasts’ usual appearance. You should then repeat this procedure with your arms raised.

You should then firmly feel each breast while lying down, using the opposite hand on each breast. Follow a circular, consistent pattern and ensure you feel the entire breast. Lastly, repeat the same process standing up. It is also possible to do this same exam in the shower, which many women find to be easier.

If you discover an abnormality, don’t panic. It may be nothing, but you should reach out to your doctor and schedule an appointment to be sure.

Sources:

https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam

https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/risk-fact-sheet

https://www.cancer.org/healthy/find-cancer-early/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html