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Breast self-examination guide for awareness, not diagnosis.
A structured, respectful guide to regular self-check habits, signs to notice, and situations where clinical advice is important.
When to Perform a Self-Exam
Routine awareness- Choose the same time each month so changes are easier to notice over time.
- If menstruating, many clinicians suggest checking a few days after the period ends.
- If not menstruating, choose a consistent calendar date each month.
Step-by-Step Guide
Look, raise, feel- Stand before a mirror with shoulders straight and arms relaxed. Look for visible changes in shape, symmetry, or skin texture.
- Raise both arms and look again for dimpling, distortion, swelling, or nipple changes.
- While lying down or in the shower, use the pads of your fingers to examine the breast and underarm area in small circular motions.
- Cover the full area from collarbone to upper abdomen and from armpit to cleavage line.
- Check for lumps, thickening, tenderness in a specific spot, or new changes that persist.
