How to check your breasts

Hi, I'm Roz, I'm one of the cancer nurses here at the Irish Cancer Society and I'm here to talk to you about breast self-examinations.

It's important that every woman is breast aware. This means knowing what's normal for you so that you can spot any changes. The sooner you notice a change, the better. Because if the change is cancerous and is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful.

So, get into the habit of looking and feeling your breasts each month. This will help you notice any change if it occurs.

It's important to know what is normal for you. Your breasts will go through many changes which are normal during your life. For example, your breasts are affected by changes in your hormones during pregnancy, menstrual cycle, breastfeeding and menopause.

There are 2 stages to a self-breast exam. Look for changes by using a mirror, so that you can see the breasts from different angles. You're looking for changes in the skin around the nipples, whether the nipples have changed or if there's any unusual discharge. Then look for changes in the size or shape of your breasts.

Feel for changes. An easy way of feeling your breasts is with a soapy hand in the bath or shower. Some women prefer to feel for changes while lying down. You're feeling for lumps, thickening, or swelling, and you're checking for any red or tender areas.

So, using the pads of your 3 fingers, you're going to check all parts of your breast, your armpits, and up to your collarbone. On your breast, using your hand in a circular motion and moving clockwise, feel for any lumps, thickening or swelling.

You're looking for any change in the size or shape of your breast, and checking for any red or tender areas. You're also looking for any change to the skin on or around your nipples, or any discharge.

You should feel in and around your armpit, and right up along your collarbone. Once you've done that on one side, change hands and check the other breast, and repeat all these steps.

Remember, there are many reasons for changes in your breast. 9 out of 10 breast changes won't turn out to be breast cancer, but it's important to go to your GP and have any new symptoms checked.

You can also freephone us on 1800 200 700 to speak to a cancer nurse in confidence.