Self-Breast Exam: The Right Way

A breast self-exam (BSE) is a simple, proactive way to become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, helping you detect any unusual changes early. While not a replacement for clinical screenings, it’s a valuable tool for breast health awareness.

Experts recommend doing a BSE once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends when breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. Here's a simplified step-by-step guide:

1: Look in the mirror

Stand topless in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your hands on your hips. Look at your breasts to check that they are . . .

• Their usual size, shape and color
• Evenly shaped without any swelling or distortion

Then raise your arms and look again for the same types of changes. Look for fluid discharge from nipples (watery, milky, or bloody).

2: Lie down

• Use your right hand to examine your left breast and vice versa.
• Use a firm, smooth touch with the pads of your fingers in a circular motion.
• Cover the entire breast from top to bottom and side to side.

Beginning at the nipple and moving in larger and larger circles, feel your breast tissue and keep going until you reach the outer edge of each breast.

3: Stand or sit

Finally, when you’re standing or sitting, feel your breasts again, using the same motions as when you are lying down. You may find this easiest to do in the shower when your skin is wet and slippery.

The point of all this is to know the look and feel of your breasts so you can notice any changes or issues to bring to your doctor’s attention, including bulging or lumps or redness, soreness, rashes or swelling, as well as any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples. This knowledge of your body—along with regular visits to your healthcare provider—will help give you peace of mind about your breast health for years to come.

While routine breast self-exams are no longer universally recommended as a screening tool, many healthcare providers still encourage them as a way to stay in tune with your body. They’re quick, free, and empowering.

To learn more about mammograms and other imaging tests, 

• Call Riverview Health Bone & Breast Center at 317.776.7133.

• Answer the Mammogram questionnaire and schedule your Mammogram today.

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