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How To Conduct a Breast Self Exam (BSE)
 A Step-By-Step Guide

STEP 1: look at your breasts

Stand in front of a mirror undressed and put your hands on your hips.

 

Look for any of the following:

  • lumps

  • skin changes

  • dimpling

  • swelling

  • irritation

  • pulled in nipple

  • inverted nipple

  • discharge

  • pain

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Raise both hands above your head and look for the same things.

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Step 1: Look

STEP 2: Feel your breasts 

  1. Get in Position:

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  2. With your left hand, use the finger pads of your three middle fingers to feel your breast tissue for lumps

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  3. Move your fingers in a pattern to make sure you are feeling every part of the breast. Below are three common patterns you can use. Use the method that works best for you, or multiple if you want to be extra thorough.

    1. patterns

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  4. Repeat this pattern using light, medium, and firm pressure. â€‹

  5. Press the tissue under your arm, then squeeze the nipple gently to check for discharge

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  6. When you are done, repeat steps 2-5 on the other side of your body.

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Step 2: Feel

Standing Up Method

Stand upright and move your right arm behind your head. If in the shower, lather your breasts and fingers with soap so that your fingers glide easily

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Laying Down Method

Choose a bed or other flat surface to lie down on your back. Place an object (like a pillow) under your right shoulder to elevate it, and place your right arm behind your head

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STEP 3: When to contact your doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of the following:

  • A hard lump or knot near your underarm

  • Changes in the way your breasts look or feel, including thickening or prominent fullness that is different from the surrounding tissue

  • Dimples, puckers, bulges or ridges on the skin of your breast

  • Recent change in a nipple to become pushed in/inverted instead of sticking out

  • Redness, warmth, swelling or pain

  • Itching, scales, sores or rashes

  • Bloody nipple discharge

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When to see your doctor

Helpful Video Tutorials

Video Tutorials

#Feel4LumpsSaveUrBumps

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