How to check your breasts

Finding breast cancer early gives you the best chance of effective treatment.

You should examine your breasts regularly to be aware of anything that looks or feels different.

If you notice any changes in your breast that are new or unusual for you, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Not all breast changes are cancerous (they may be ‘benign’ changes).

Screening with regular mammograms is also important, even when you don’t have any symptoms.

Work out what’s normal for your breasts

Everyone’s breasts look and feel different. They may be lumpy, different sizes from each other or different shapes. One or both nipples might be pulled in (‘inverted’), either since birth or when your breasts developed.

Try to get used to your ‘normal’ by doing self-examination regularly. There’s no right or wrong way to check. You can:

• Sit or stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your sides, then above your head or pulled back.
• Feel your breasts in the bath or shower, when you use body lotion or when you get dressed.

Just decide what you are comfortable with and what suits you best. 

When you check your breasts, try to be aware of anything that’s different for you.  

Symptoms of breast cancer to check for  

It’s common to hear “I felt a lump” from people who have had a breast cancer diagnosis. A lump is one sign, but there are many other symptoms or warning signs to watch for.

Breast changes may include:

• a lump or swelling in your breast or underarm (armpit) 
• changes in the shape or size of the breast 
• irritation or dimpling of your breast skin  
• pain in any area of your breast that is unusual or ongoing
• an indent (puckering) in part of the breast when you lift your arms
• a rash or red, crusty or flaky skin in your nipple area or your breast  
• a change in the shape of the nipple, such as it turning inwards (‘inverting’)
• discharge from the nipple, other than breast milk.

Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits, and up to your collarbone. 

Not everyone has symptoms. In some cases, a lump is too small to be felt or cause any changes to the breast. Routine screening is important to pick up changes and cancers. 

Don’t delay  

If you find a change in your breast that’s unusual for you, see your doctor as soon as possible.