How to Conduct a Self-Breast Check In Between Visits

With your health, knowledge is power, including getting familiar with your own body. While clinical breast exams and mammograms are essential, regularly checking your breasts at home can help you catch any changes early. And the best part? It only takes a few minutes.

Here, Dr. Caleigh Rodriguez and our team walk through how to do a proper self-breast check, when to do it, and what you should be looking for.

Why self-breast checks matter

It feels awkward to poke and prod yourself — is it that important? Our answer is a resounding yes! When it comes to treating breast cancer, early detection is key. 

Self-breast exams (SBEs) aren’t a replacement for professional screenings but are a smart habit. Many women notice breast changes themselves long before a doctor ever does. That’s why it’s essential to be in tune with your normal look and feel.

If you notice something unusual, bringing it up with your doctor can make a big difference.

When should I do a self-check?

The optimal time to perform a breast self-check is a few days after your period ends.

Your hormone levels have settled, and your breasts will be less tender or swollen. If you’re not menstruating (due to menopause, pregnancy, or another reason), pick the same day each month to stay consistent.

Set a calendar reminder or make it part of your monthly routine, like the first Saturday of the month — whatever helps you remember.

A step-by-step guide to self-breast exams

Don’t worry — self-breast exams are easy and quick, and you can do them standing up, lying down, or even in the shower. 

The following is a step-by-step guide on how to do it properly: 

First, start with a visual check. Stand with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides. Look for any changes in shape, size, or symmetry. Check for puckering, dimpling, or changes in the skin (like rash, scaling, or redness).

Don’t forget to look at your nipples — make sure there’s no inversion (pulling inward) or unexpected discharge.

Now, raise your arms and repeat the visual inspection (changes may be more noticeable from this angle).

Next, feel for lumps.

With your opposite hand, use the pads of your fingers to feel your breast. Move in small, circular motions, starting from the outer edge and working toward the nipple. Use various levels of pressure — light, medium, and firm — to feel the different layers of tissue. Cover the entire breast area, and don’t forget your armpit.

Bonus tip: Feeling for lumps is easier in the shower. Soapy skin makes it easier for your fingers to glide, helping detect any unusual lumps or thickening.

Finally, repeat the check lying down.

Breast tissue spreads out more evenly when you lie flat on your back. Place a pillow under one shoulder and your arm behind your head, and use your opposite hand to repeat the same circular pattern as before.

Don’t rush — take your time and learn what’s typical.

What is normal, and what is not?

Breasts naturally have some lumpiness, especially before or during your period or while breastfeeding. We want to know about any new or unusual changes, such as:

• A firm lump with a different feel than the rest of your tissue
• Swelling, warmth, or redness
• Pain in one specific area
• Nipple discharge, especially if it’s bloody or clear, not milky
• A change in nipple shape or position
• Skin texture that looks like an orange peel or dimpling

If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic. It’s always worth Dr. Rodriguez taking a closer look even though most breast changes aren’t cancer. 

Self-breast exams are calm, free, and empowering, and once you get the hang of it, they only take a few minutes each month.

If you have questions about your breast health or want to know what screening schedule is best for you, don’t hesitate to call our friendly staff at 830-745-4631 or use our online booking feature to schedule a women’s health exam. We proudly serve women in the New Braunfels, Texas, area.