Conducting a self-exam
| In the shower |
| Raise one arm and place the pads of your fingertips on the outer edge of your breast. Feel for thickening, lumps or changes as you firmly glide your hand in small circular motions, spiraling around the breast and working toward the nipple. Also examine your armpit. Use the same procedure for your other breast. Gently squeeze both nipples and look for any discharge. |
| In front of a mirror |
|
With your arms raised, press your arms forward while clasping the back of your head. Look for any changes in skin texture or dimpling of the breast. With arms lowered, pull your shoulders and elbows forward as you press your hands on your hips and lean slightly toward the mirror. Look for similar changes. |
| Lying down |
|
Lie flat with a towel under your left shoulder and your left arm over your head. Firmly move your fingers in small circles, spiraling toward the nipple of your left breast. Also examine your armpit. Repeat the procedure on your right breast. |
For more information on self-exams, call Jane Brattain Breast Center at 952-993-3700.
-
Breast self-exam shower card
(PDF).
Back to Breast self-exams








