Regular breast self-examination and mammography should be a part of your health care routine. Do this at the same time every month to note any changes in the way your breast look or feel.
If you have menstrual periods, the best time to self-examine is a few days after your period ends. Postmenopausal women should do so the first day of every month.
In Front of a Mirror:
With your arms at your sides, look carefully for changes in the size, shape, and contour of the breast.
Look for puckering, dimpling, or any changes in skin texture.Gently squeeze the nipple, checking for any discharge.
In The Shower
- Raise your arm. With the opposite hand, place the flat part of your fingers on your breast’s outer edge.
- Firmly glide your hand in small circles, spiraling toward the nipple as you touch every part of the breast to feel for lumps, thickenings, or changes.
- Be sure to examine the area between the breast and the underarm and the underarm itself.
- Feel for any unusual lump or mass under the skin.
- Gently squeeze the nipple for any discharge.
Lying Flat
- Place a towel or pillow under your shoulder and raise your arm, positioning your hand behind your head.
- Using the hand on the opposite side, fingers flat, use the same circular motion described earlier.
- Examine every part of the breast for lumps, thickenings, or changes.
- Be sure to examine the area between the breast and the underarm and the underarm itself.
- Feel for any unusual lump or mass under the skin.
- Gently squeeze the nipple for any discharge.
If any changes are found, or if you have any concerns or questions, contact NGPG OBGYN using the form on this page or call 770-219-9300.