Breast Self-Exam (BSE)
A BSE is when you use your own hands to feel your breasts for unusual lumps. Ask your doctor for instructions on how to do this correctly. It’s normal for your breasts to feel a little lumpy or uneven, especially if you’re pregnant, going through menopause, or taking birth control pills or hormones. They also may feel tender if you have your period. Be aware of what your breasts normally feel like, whether or not you do monthly BSE. That can help you know when to bring a change to the attention of your doctor.
Breast Self-Exam (BSE)
- Stand before a mirror. Inspect both breasts for anything unusual such as any discharge from the nipples or puckering, dimpling, or scaling of the skin.
- Watching closely in the mirror, clasp you hands behind your head and press your hands forward.
- Next, press your hands firmly on your hips and bow slightly toward your mirror as you pull your shoulders and elbows forward.
- Lying on the bed, raise your left arm. Use three or four fingers of your right hand to explore your left breast firmly, carefully, and thoroughly. Beginning at the outer edge, press the flat part of your fingers in small circles, moving the circles slowly around the breast. Gradually work toward the nipple. Be sure to cover the entire breast. Pay special attention to the area between the breast and the underarm, including the underarm itself. Feel for any unusual lump or mass under the skin. Next, lower your arm and examine the armpit using the same technique and repeat on the opposite breast.
- In addition to lying down, BSE may also be done in the shower for a thorough and complete exam.
- Examples of patterns.
(Courtesy of Jones and Bartlett Publishers)
