Do Breast Self-Exams Monthly

There are three methods you need to check for abnormalities:  In the shower, In front of a Mirror, and Lying Down.  Do these the same time each month in the relatively same manner.

1)  In the Shower
  • Place one hand behind your head.
  • Use the finger pads of your three middle fingers to move your hand over entire breast area.
  • Use right hand for left breast, left hand for right.
  • You can use any of the three patens below to examine your breasts.  Use the technique your healthcare professional recommends at your clinical breast exam.  Do it the same way each time.  Check for lumps, knots, or thickenings.
Wedge Technique
Press gently in a diagonal direction. Start at the outermost edge and spiral in towards the nipple.
Circular Technique
Press gently in small circles. Start at the outermost edge and spiral in towards the nipple.
Vertical Strip Technique
Press gently using upward and downward movements. Start at the inside of your brest moving downward. next move fingers in the opposite direction, continuing these movements until reaching the underarm area.

 

Check for lumps, knots, or thickenings.

Photos courtesy of the American Cancer Society.