Self-Breast Exams: 3 Ways to Perform Them

Laura Borghardt, director of the Phillips Family Cancer Center and director of cancer services at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, discusses the importance of breast-self-examinations as the first line of defense in detecting breast cancer, as well as how to perform them.

Early detection of breast cancer is vital to improving the chances of successful outcomes. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Breast-Self Exams Explained

A breast self-exam is an early screening method that combines both physical and visual examinations of the breast to check for check for any changes and signs of breast cancer.

Checking the Breasts Monthly

Women who are still menstruating should perform a breast self-examination just as their period ends. Pre- to post-menopausal women should perform them at the same time each month.

Breast-Exams Should Begin Earlier than One May Think

The recommended age to start doing breast self-exams is age 20. However, women with a family history of breast cancer should perform these self-exams sooner.

Steps for Breast Self-Exams:

Laying Down:
While lying down, put a pillow under the breast being examined. The same side arm should be lifted over the head. With the middle three fingers from the opposite hand apply light, medium, and firm pressure in a circular motion around the breast and armpit area, feeling for any new lumps, thickening, hardened knots, or any other changes. Squeeze the nipple to check for discharge or any pain. Repeat the same process with the next breast.

Standing Up In the Shower:
Many women prefer to do a breast-exam in the shower as it makes it easier when their skin is wet and slippery. While standing up, lift the same side arm of the breast being examined over the head. Using three fingers from the opposite hand, apply light, medium and firm pressure around the entire breast and arm pit area to check for any changes in the breast.

In the Mirror with Hands on Hips:
While standing in front of a mirror with the shoulders straight and hands on the hips, look for any changes in the size, shape, and color of the breasts.

Something Seems Off, Now What?

Any changes—lumps or bumps within the breast area or underarm swelling; change in size or shape of the breast; any dimpling of the breast skin; pain, rash, soreness, or discharge from the nipple; or any new pain that doesn’t go away—should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Additional Screening Guidelines

In addition to self-exams, women should see their practitioner annually for a physical and breast exam. Starting at age 40, women should have an Annual Screening Mammography. However, women under 40 with a family history of breast cancer, or other personal risks, should consult with their physician about the need and risk assessment regarding having these screenings done earlier.