Breast cancer affects over 300,000 women and men in the U.S. every year, yet many cases go undetected until later stages. That’s why early detection is key—and why October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect reminder to take control of your health.
One of the simplest, most empowering tools you have to aid in diagnosis? A monthly breast self-exam.
Contents
- 1 Why Breast Self-Exams Matter
- 2 When and How Often Should You Do a Breast Self-Exam?
- 3 How to Do a Breast Self-Exam at Home
- 4 What to Look and Feel For
- 5 What If You Find a Lump?
- 6 Are Self-Exams Enough for Breast Cancer Screening?
- 7 Do Men Need to Check for Breast Cancer Too?
- 8 Stay Aware, Stay Empowered: Check Yourself Monthly
Why Breast Self-Exams Matter
While routine doctor visits and annual mammograms are essential, monthly breast self-exams help you notice subtle changes that could signal something more serious. By checking your breasts regularly, you’ll become familiar with what’s normal for you and more likely to catch anything unusual early.
- Doctor’s Exams: Women should receive clinical breast exams during regular checkups, especially after age 40 or if they have a family history of breast cancer.
- Mammograms: Annual screenings remain the gold standard for detecting cancer before it can be felt.
- Men Are at Risk, Too: Approximately 2,800 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Self-exams are equally important for men, especially those with a family history or genetic predisposition.
When and How Often Should You Do a Breast Self-Exam?
The best time to perform a breast self-exam is about 3–5 days after your period starts, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. If you no longer menstruate, simply choose a consistent date each month and set a calendar reminder.
- Do it once a month
- Choose the same time every month
- Commit to making it part of your routine
How to Do a Breast Self-Exam at Home
The National Breast Cancer foundation suggests performing self-exams once a month. You can perform a self-exam in front of a mirror while lying down or in the shower.
In Front of a Mirror
With your arms resting at your sides, visually examine your breasts. Next, raise your arms above your head. Look for any changes in the contour of your breast shape, any swelling or dimpling of the skin, or a change in color of the nipples.
Then, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex the muscles in your chest. It’s unlikely that both breasts will match exactly (very few women have breasts that do) but look for any puckering, dimpling or changes—especially if it is only on one side.
Lying Down
While you’re lying down, your breast tissue spreads evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow behind your head, and under your right shoulder and arm. Using your left hand, gently move the pads of your fingers around your right breast in small circular motions. Be sure to cover the entire breast and armpit.
Use light, medium and firm pressure to access the layers of your tissue. Squeeze your nipples and check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.
In the Shower
Using the pads of your fingers, examine your entire breast and armpit with a circular pattern, moving from the outside to the center. Check both of your breasts for any lumps, thickening, or a hardened knot. If you notice any changes, alert your healthcare provider right away.
What to Look and Feel For
Watch for these early signs of breast cancer:
- Lumps or hardened knots in the breast or underarm
- Nipple discharge (especially clear or bloody)
- Changes in size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling, puckering, or thickening of the skin
- Inversion or change in nipple direction
- Persistent redness, swelling, or warmth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a provider right away, even if you’re not sure what it means. When in doubt, get it checked.
What If You Find a Lump?
Don’t panic—about 80% of breast lumps are non-cancerous.
Many lumps turn out to be benign cysts or fibrous tissue. Still, any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Next steps may include:
- A clinical breast exam
- Diagnostic imaging (ultrasound or mammogram)
- A biopsy, if needed
We’re proud to have a team of experienced breast surgeons at My Houston Surgeons who help patients gain clarity and peace of mind.
Are Self-Exams Enough for Breast Cancer Screening?
Self-exams are a helpful part of your routine, but they’re not a replacement for mammograms or clinical care.
- Mammograms can detect tumors before they can be felt.
- Self-exams help you stay familiar with your body.
- Combined, they offer the best chance for early detection.
If you’re over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your provider about when to begin screening and how often you need it.
Do Men Need to Check for Breast Cancer Too?
Yes, men can get breast cancer, and often the signs are overlooked.
Male breast cancer symptoms to watch for:
- A lump near or behind the nipple
- Nipple discharge
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Redness or scaling
- Nipple retraction
Men with a family history of BRCA mutations, radiation exposure, or Klinefelter syndrome are at higher risk. Monthly self-checks and awareness are key.
Stay Aware, Stay Empowered: Check Yourself Monthly
Your body often tells you when something’s wrong—you just have to know how to listen. A monthly breast self-exam is quick, easy, and could save your life.
Let October be your reminder—start your monthly breast exam habit today, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
Concerned about a lump? We’re here to help.
If you’ve found something unusual or it’s simply been a while since your last screening, schedule a consultation with My Houston Surgeons today.