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Breast self examination

In the shower

Raise your right arm. Use the finger pads of your left hand to touch every part of your right breast. Feel gently for any lumps or changes under the skin. Then raise your left arm and use your right hand to examine your left breast.

 
Breast Self Examination - In the shower

Before a mirror

Place your arms at your sides. Check both breast for anything unusual – discharge, puckering, dimpling or changes in skin texture. Clasp your hands behind your head and look for any changes in the shape or contour of your breasts. Gently squeeze nipples and look for discharge. 
Breast Self Examination - Before a mirror


Lying down

Lie flat on your back, with your left arm over your head and a pillow under your left shoulder. Put your left hand behind your head. Use your right hand to begin touching your left breast gently but firmly. 
Breast Self Examination - Lying down

Starting at your armpit move down or just below your breast. Now move your fingers down and up again. Continue this up-and-down pattern until you have covered the area. 
Breast Self Examination

Rest your arm on a firm surface and use the same up-and-down motion to examine the area between the breast and the underarm, and the underarm itself. 
Breast Self Examination

This self-examination is not a substitute for a periodic examination by a qualified physician.

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