How to Do a Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

Strip to the waist and stand before a mirror. You will need to see both breasts at the same time. Stand with your hands on your hips and check the overall appearance of your breasts.

Look at the size, shape, and contour. Note changes, if any, in the color or texture of the skin on your breasts as well as on your nipples and areolas.

Now, raise your arms over your head. See if your breasts move to the same degree and in the same way as each other, and note any differences. Look at the size, shape, and drape, checking for symmetry.

Look up toward your armpits and note if there is any swelling where your lymph nodes are (lower armpit area).

Still facing the mirror, lower both arms.

Check the nipples to see if you have any dimples, bumps, or retraction (indentation). With the index and middle fingers of your right hand, gently squeeze the left nipple and pull forward. It should spring back into place, as opposed to sinking back into the breast.

Note whether or not any fluid leaks out. Reverse your hands and check the right nipple in the same way.

Bloody (red) or clear discharge are potentially worrisome, especially if either is coming out of only one nipple. Other colors, such as green, white, or yellow, are usually signs of other conditions, such as an infection or a blocked milk duct.

This is best done in the shower, as wet skin will have the least resistance to the friction of your fingers.

Raise your left arm overhead and use your right-hand fingers to apply gentle pressure to the left breast. Stroke from the top to the bottom of the breast, moving across from the inside of the breast all the way into your armpit area.

You can also use a circular motion, being sure to cover the entire breast area. Take note of any changes in the texture, color, or size. Switch sides and repeat.

This is best done lying down on a bed with your head and shoulders resting on a pillow.

Lie down and put your left hand behind your head. Use your right hand to stroke the breast and underarm, as you did earlier. Take note of any changes in the texture or the size of your breasts. Switch sides and repeat.