What is Breast Awareness?

Breast Awareness is about getting to know your own breasts and becoming familiar with what is normal for you.  By being breast aware you will be able to detect any small changes which may occur.

1.  Sit facing a mirror …….look for any changes in breast shape & size

How can I be breast aware?

Try finding a time and a place where you can feel comfortable.  You should be undressed to the waist and standing in front of a mirror.  This could be done before you get dressed or after a bath or shower.  Look first with your arms by your side and then lift your arms above your head.    Turn from side to side and look again.

You need to look and feel for changes.  By doing this regularly you will soon know what is normal for you.

2.  Standing or lying down, place one hand firmly just under the opposite armpit

Looking

What are the changes to look for?

Any changes in the size, shape or outline of the breast.  (It may be normal for you to have one breast larger than the other.)

A change in position of the nipples.

Any bleeding or weeping from the nipple.

Veins standing out more than usual for you.

Any new skin or nipple rash

Any swelling or dimpling

Any puckering of the skin

3.  Using a soapy hand, gradually slide the flat of your fingers over and around the breast area

Feeling

What are the changes to feel for?

A lump or thickening in the breast or axilla (armpit) that is new for you.

To do this, use the flat of your fingers to feel every part of your breasts.  Include the area right up to your collar bone and under your arm.  You may find this easier with soapy hands whilst in the bath or shower.  Women with large breasts may prefer to do this lying down.

4.  Feel for any lumps or other signs of abnormality.

How often should I do this?

Try to get into the habit of doing this once a month.  If you do this more frequently you may have difficulty in detecting small changes.  If you are still having your monthly periods, try to do this just after your period has finished.

What do I do if I notice any change?

5.  Check nipple area by pressing gently, feeling for lumps.