How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

To conduct a breast self-exam, you should visually inspect and physically palpate your breasts to check for any unusual changes or lumps. It's recommended to perform this exam monthly, ideally a week after your period ends when your breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender. 

Visual Inspection:

1. Mirror Check:
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides and observe your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or symmetry.
2. Hands on Hips:
Press your hands firmly on your hips and lean forward, observing for any puckering, dimpling, or other skin changes.
3. Arms Raised:
Raise your arms overhead and repeat the visual inspection, looking for any abnormalities that might be more apparent with your arms raised. 

Physical Palpation:

1. Lying Down:
Lie down with a pillow or folded towel under your shoulder on the side you're examining, and raise that arm over your head. This position flattens the breast tissue, making it easier to feel for lumps. 
2. Using Your Fingers:
Use the pads of your fingers (not your fingertips) with a firm, circular motion to systematically examine the entire breast area, including the armpit and collarbone area. 
3. Pressure:
Use different levels of pressure (light, medium, and firm) to feel for lumps or thickening at different depths within the breast tissue. 
4. Pattern:
Use a systematic pattern, such as lines, circles, or wedges, to ensure you cover the entire breast area. 
5. Shower Check:
You can also perform the palpation in the shower with soapy hands, which can make it easier to feel for changes. 

Key Things to Look For:

• Lumps or Masses: Any new or unusual lumps, especially if they are hard and fixed, should be reported to your doctor. 
• Skin Changes: Look for puckering, dimpling, redness, or swelling. 
• Nipple Changes: Check for any inversion, discharge, or scaling of the nipples. 
• Size or Shape Changes: Note any noticeable differences in the size or shape of one breast compared to the other. 

If You Find Anything Unusual:

• Don't panic. Many breast changes are benign. However, it's crucial to consult your doctor promptly for further evaluation if you find any new or concerning changes in your breasts. 
• Make sure to discuss your breast self-exam findings with your doctor at your next checkup. 
• BreastScreen Australia offers free mammograms for women aged 50-74. You can find information about BreastScreen services and book an appointment on their website or by calling 13 20 50. 

(Information above sourced online and collated via AI.)
(Chart above sourced from National Breast Cancer Foundation)