Do a Breast Self-examination

With breast cancer a leading cause of death in women, second only to lung cancer, it is crucial that you detect the first signs of abnormality. If you are an adult woman you should do a breast examination once a month. Do it a few days after your period when your breasts will be less tender.

1. Undress to your waist and either sit or stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your side. Look in the mirror at you breasts and see if there are any irregularities in the size or texture of your breast. Press your nipples to see if there is any discharge.
2. Clasp your hands behind your head and press them forward so your arms pull back. Check for any changes or unusual difference in your breast
3. Put your hands on your hips and pull your shoulders and elbows back. Again, check for irregularities in appearance. Then, move your elbows and shoulders forward, checking once more.
4. Raise one arm above your head, and with the other hand, inspect the breast opposite to it. Using three fingers press down firmly on a spot in your breast. Rub the area in a circular motion, feeling for lumps under the skin. Continue pressing until you have examined the entire breast, including the area near the armpit, and the armpit itself.
5. When you have pressed around the breast completely, pinch the nipple softly and check for any liquid discharge.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with your other hand and breast.
7. Lie on your back with one hand folded under your head. This will flatten the breast, stretched tissue make lumps easier to find. Again pressing your hand firmly, slide your hand around the breast in a circular motion and feel for lumps under the skin. Start at the outside of the breast and move toward the center in a circular motion. Also feel the area at the top of the collarbone and the armpit.