May 8, 2025

How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination at Home

Taking charge of your health starts with small, simple steps—and one of the most important is learning how to check your breasts at home. A regular breast self-examination can help you notice changes early, which is key in detecting breast cancer when it’s easier to treat. This blog will walk you through how to do a breast self-exam at home in a safe and comfortable way.

Whether you’re doing this for the first time or just need a refresher, you’re in the right place.

Why Breast Self-Examinations Matter

Many women find out about changes in their breasts on their own—often while dressing, bathing, or doing a self-exam. While breast self-exams don’t replace mammograms or doctor check-ups, they are a simple habit that can help you notice anything new.

Breast cancer doesn’t always show clear signs at first. Sometimes it’s a small lump, skin change, or even a change in how your breast feels. Doing a monthly self-check can help you spot these signs early.

When is the Best Time to Do a Breast Self-Exam?

If you have periods, the best time to check your breasts is a few days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender.
If you’ve reached menopause or have irregular cycles, choose a specific day of the month, like the first or last day, and set a reminder.

Step-by-Step: How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination at Home

1. In Front of a Mirror

Stand up straight with your arms at your sides.
Look at your breasts for any changes in shape, size, skin, or nipples.
Raise your arms over your head and check again.
Look for puckering, dimpling, redness, or swelling.

2. While Lying Down

Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder.
Use the pads of your three middle fingers on your left hand to feel your right breast.
Move your fingers in small circles, covering the entire breast and armpit.
Use light, medium, and firm pressure.
Switch sides and repeat.

3. In the Shower

Raise one arm and use the opposite hand to feel your breast in circular motions.
The slippery surface makes it easier to feel lumps or thick areas.
Don’t forget to check under your arm too.

What You Might Find (And What It Could Mean)

Not every lump is cancer. Many women feel lumps that turn out to be harmless. These could be due to hormonal changes, cysts, or benign growths.

But it’s still important to pay attention to:

A new lump or thickened area
Swelling or warmth
Skin dimpling or puckering
Changes in nipple direction or discharge
Redness or flaky skin

If you notice something new or unusual, it’s best to speak with a doctor, even if it seems small.

How Often Should You Do a Breast Self-Exam?

Most doctors recommend checking once a month. It only takes a few minutes and can easily become part of your routine—like brushing your teeth or washing your face. Set a reminder on your phone, or mark it on your calendar to stay consistent.

What to Do If You Notice Something Unusual

First of all, don’t panic. Many breast changes are not cancer. If you find something that feels different or doesn’t go away after your next period, make an appointment with a doctor.

Try to note:

Where you felt the change
When you first noticed it
Whether it’s grown or changed shape

Bringing this information to your doctor can help guide the next steps, which may include an exam or imaging tests like an ultrasound or mammogram.

Take Action Today

Start by making breast self-checks a monthly habit. Talk about it with friends and family—it could help someone else catch a problem early too. And if you ever notice anything unusual, don’t wait to ask a professional.

Your awareness can make a real difference.

FAQ: Breast Self-Exams

Q1: Can I really find breast cancer with a self-exam?
Yes, many women first notice signs of breast cancer themselves. While it’s not a guarantee, doing self-checks regularly helps you spot unusual changes early.

Q2: Should I be worried if I feel a lump?
Not necessarily. Many lumps are not cancer. But it’s always a good idea to have a doctor check it.

Q3: Can men do breast self-exams too?
Yes. Though rare, men can get breast cancer. Regular checks can help spot early changes.

Need Guidance? Meet Dr. Sumit Shah – Breast Cancer Specialist in Pune

If you’re in Pune and have concerns about breast health or want to learn more about regular screenings, Dr. Sumit Shah at Prolife Cancer Centre can help. He has helped many patients understand their symptoms and take the right steps.

📍 Prolife Cancer Centre, Pune