Taking care of your health includes being aware of changes in your body, and checking your breasts at home is an important step. Performing a self-examination helps you understand how to check for breast cancer at home normally look and feel, so you can notice any unusual changes early. While it does not replace mammograms or professional medical checkups, it serves as a valuable precaution and empowers you to take control of your health.
The first step in a home breast check is visual inspection. Stand in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed at your sides and examine your breasts for size, shape, and symmetry. Look for any visible differences between the breasts, changes in skin texture, dimpling, or unusual swelling. Then raise your arms overhead and check again. Sometimes lifting the arms highlights changes that were not noticeable when the arms were down.
Next comes the physical examination. Using your fingers, gently feel your entire breast tissue, moving in small circular motions. Many people find it helpful to do this while in the shower when the skin is slightly wet. Make sure to cover the area from the outer edge of the breast all the way to the nipple, and include the armpit and area above the collarbone. Vary the pressure, starting with light touch and then applying slightly firmer pressure. This helps you differentiate between normal tissue and any lumps or thickened areas that feel different.
If you detect a new lump, thickening, hard area, or any changes in the skin, nipple, or discharge, it is important not to ignore it. Not all changes indicate cancer, but prompt consultation with a doctor or healthcare professional is essential for proper evaluation. Establish a regular routine for self-examination, ideally once a month. For menstruating women, performing the check after the period ends is usually best, while postmenopausal women can select a consistent day each month.
The greatest benefit of performing breast self-checks is becoming familiar with your own body. Knowing the normal look and feel of your breasts allows you to detect subtle changes early. While self-exams are valuable, they should be complemented by regular medical checkups and screening tests, which together provide the most effective strategy for early detection and ongoing breast health. Being proactive and consistent with home checks, combined with professional guidance, helps ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly and safely.