Breast Self-Examinations

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No matter your age, it is important that you know your breasts, recognise any changes that may be occurring and know where to go to raise any concerns you have.

Regular Breast Self-Examinations are your first step in ensuring you are ‘breast aware’. Everyone’s breasts look and feel different. You may have one larger breast, lumpy breasts, breast that are different shapes, one or both nipples inverted (that are pulled in) which can all happen from birth or as the breasts are developing.

There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts, just ensure that you check all parts of your breast – from your armpits to your collarbone.
When you check your breasts, try to be aware of any changes that are different for you.

As a guide to what to look out for when performing self-examinations;

  • Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
  • A new lump in your breast or underarm
  • Irritation or dimpling of your breast skin
  • Redness or flaky skin in your nipple area or your breast
  • Pulling in of nipple (inverting) or pain in the nipple area
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk
  • Any change of size or shape of your breast
  • Pain in any area of your breast.

Don’t Delay: 
Most breast changes are not likely to be breast cancer. However if you were to notice any changes in your breasts that are unusual to you, please do not delay and consult your GP