Breast Self-Exam

Why You Should Do A Breast Self-Exam

One of the many good reasons for doing a monthly breast self-exam is that it is easy to do. The more you do it, the better you will get at it. When you get to know how your breasts normally feel, you will quickly be able to feel any change. Early detection is the key to successful treatment.

Remember: A breast self-exam could save your breast – and your life. Most breast lumps are found by women themselves, but in fact, most lumps in the breast are not cancer. Be safe, and be sure.

When To Do A Breast Self-Exam

The best time to do breast self-exam is right after your period, when breasts are not tender or swollen. If you do not have regular periods or sometimes skip a month, do it on the same day every month.

How To Do A Breast Self-Exam

Visit BreastCancer.org for step-by-step instruction on how to conduct a breast-self exam and other resources.

American Cancer Society Guidelines For The Early Detection Of Breast Cancer

Age 20 – 39:

• Have a clinical breast examination (CBE) by a doctor or nurse every three years.
• Do a breast self-examination every month.

Age 40 and over:

• Have a mammogram every year.
• Have an annual clinical breast examination by a doctor or nurse (CBE should be done close to the time of the mammogram).
• Do a breast self-examination every month.