Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides
Look for any changes in size, shape, or symmetry
Check for dimpling, puckering, swelling, redness, or changes in the nipples
Raise your arms overhead and look for the same changes
Place your hands on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles
Look again for any visible changes in the breasts or nipples
Lie down and place a pillow under your right shoulder
Put your right arm behind your head
Use the pads of the three middle fingers of your left hand to feel your right breast
Move your fingers in small circular motions and cover the entire breast
Use light, medium, and firm pressure to feel different tissue depths
Check from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen and from the armpit to the cleavage
Feel the area around and under the nipple
Repeat the same steps on the left breast using your right hand
Check the armpits for lumps or thickening
Do the exam at the same time each month
If you still have periods, do it a few days after your period ends
If you no longer have periods, choose the same day each month
Contact a healthcare professional if you notice a new lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, or persistent pain