Breast Self Examination
Breast self examination should be done regularly, view our easy step-by-step guide below to conduct your self examination at home. Women over 40 are encouraged to go for an annual mammogram, download our self examnitaion leaflet to share with others.
In front of a mirror
Check for any changes in the look and feel of your breasts such as dimpling, size difference or nipple discharge. Inspect 4 ways: arms at sides; arms overhead, firmly pressing hands on hips; and bending forward.
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Laying down
Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your rand hand under your head. With the 4 fingers of your left hand make small circular motions, follow an up-and-down pattern over the entire breast area, under the arms and up to the shoulder bone, pressing firmly. Repeat on the other side.​
Whilst bathing
With your right arm raised, check your right breast with a soapy left hand and fingers flat using the same method described in Step 2. Repeat on the other side.
What to look out for?
Look for changes in the skin texture such as puckering or dimpling.
Feel for lumps and thickening.
Look for nipple discharge.
Look for nipple inversion and changes in direction.
Look for swelling in your armpit or around your collar bone.
Feeling constant pain in your breast or armpit.
Look for a change in size and shape.
Look for a rash.
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