Choose a consistent time each month, ideally a few days after your period ends
Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides
Look for changes in breast size, shape, skin, or nipple position
Raise your arms overhead and look again for any changes
Place your hands on your hips and press firmly to flex the chest muscles while looking for dimpling, puckering, or swelling
Lie down and place a pillow under one shoulder
Use the opposite hand to examine the breast on that side
Use the pads of the three middle fingers
Move the fingers in small circular motions
Cover the entire breast from collarbone to bra line and from armpit to cleavage
Use a consistent pattern such as circles, up-and-down lines, or wedges
Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to feel different tissue depths
Check the area around and under the nipple
Squeeze the nipple gently to check for discharge
Feel the armpit area for lumps or swelling
Repeat the exam on the other breast
Note any new lump, thickening, hard area, pain, or change in texture
Seek medical evaluation if you find a persistent lump or any unusual change