Monthly Breast Self-Examination (BSE)  


What is a Breast Self-Examination (BSE) ?

Breast self-examination is a procedure performed by an individual to physically 
and visually examine herself for any changes in the breasts and underarm areas
of the body.  It has not shown that BSE alone can accurately determine the 
presence of breast cancer.  Therefore, BSE should not be used in place of, but 
in addition to, clinical breast examination and mammography.


When should Breast Self-Examination (BSE) be done ?

By doing BSE regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally feel so that 
you are more apt to detect any change. Women should begin practicing breast
self-examination by age 20 and continue the practice throughout their lives - even 
during pregnancy and after menopause.  Breast self-examination (BSE) should be 
performed every month.  Become familiar with how your breasts usually look and 
feel so that you may notice any change from what is normal for you.

	•	If you still menstruate, the best time to do BSE is several days, or about a 
		week, after you period ends.  These are the days when your breasts are least
		likely to be tender or swollen.
	•	If you no longer menstruate, pick a certain day - such as the first day of each 
		month - to remind yourself to do BSE.
	•	If you are taking hormones, talk with your physician about when to do BSE.


Monthly Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

  


In the shower

While taking a shower (or bath), explore the 
breast and underarm areas with your fingertips.
Raise one arm and place your hand at the back of 
your head.
Slowly and methodically, move the pads of your 
fingertips over the breast in a circular pattern.
Don't forget to feel the armpit area.
Repeat on the other breast with your opposite hand.
  


Before a  mirror
Raise your arms above your head to check for 
changes in size, shape and contour of each breast.
Look for puckering, dimpling or changes in skin 
texture.
Gently squeeze both nipples and look for discharge.
  


Lying down

Lie down with you arm tucked behind your head.
With the other hand and with your fingers 
flattened, feel the opposite breast.
 

 

Illustration

This illustration shows you how to check each breast. Begin at point A and follow the arrows, feeling for a lump or thickening. Remember to feel all parts of each breast. Most lumps are not cancerous, but if you find one, you should get it checked by a doctor immediately.

  

Underarm area

Begin in the underarm area and move your fingers
down until they are below the breast.
Move your fingers in toward the center and go slowly 
back up .
Cover the whole area, going up and down.

With your arm resting on a firm surface, use the 
same motion to examine the underarm area. This is
breast tissue, too.