How to Perform a Breast Self-Check – Step-by-Step Guide

Brought to you by Ready Health Standish

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with nearly 50,000 women diagnosed annually. More women are surviving serious health issues than ever before. This is thanks to better medicine and greater awareness. Early detection is important. When doctors find breast cancer early, treatment works better. This lowers the chances of it spreading and helps you get back to the life you love.

Regular breast checks are essential at every stage of life. By performing a simple self-examination once a month, you can monitor changes and detect any concerns early.

What to Look For

Breast cancer isn't just about finding lumps. Other symptoms to watch out for include:

• Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin
• Redness, soreness, rash, or swelling
• A change in nipple position or an inverted nipple
• Clear or bloody fluid leaking from the nipple

If you notice any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your doctor for further assessment.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Check

Performing a breast check is simple and can be done in six easy steps:

Step 1: Look

Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and hands on your hips. Observe your breasts for:

• Their usual size, shape, and colour
• Even shape without swelling or distortion

If you notice dimpling, skin puckering, changes in nipple position, or redness, make an appointment with your doctor.

Step 2: Raise Your Arms

Lift your arms above your head and look for the same changes.

Step 3: Lean Forward

Leaning forward allows the breasts to hang naturally. Check for dimpling, puckering, or skin irregularities.

Step 4: Check for Fluid

While still in front of the mirror, look for any discharge from the nipples, which may be clear, milky, yellow, or even blood-stained.

Step 5: Feel While Lying Down

Lie down and use your right hand to examine your left breast, and vice versa.

• Use the pads of your first three fingers, keeping them flat and together.
• Apply different levels of pressure to feel all layers of tissue.
• Move in a circular pattern or in straight lines. Cover the whole breast, from the collarbone to the abdomen and from the armpit to the cleavage.

Step 6: Feel While Standing or Sitting

This final step can be done in the shower, as soapy skin makes it easier to detect changes. Use the same hand movements as in Step 5.

What to Do If You Notice a Change

First, don’t panic—many lumps and breast changes are harmless. However, if you notice anything unusual, speak to your doctor. You have the right to request a female doctor or to have a female nurse present during an examination.

What Happens Next?

If your doctor believes further tests are needed, they may refer you for a scan at a breast clinic. These tests may include:

• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to differentiate between solid and fluid-filled lumps.
• Mammogram: A specialised X-ray to detect early-stage breast cancer.
• MRI Scan: Provides detailed images of the breast tissue for further evaluation.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken to determine whether cancerous cells are present.

Breast Cancer Treatment Options

If a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. Your doctor will guide you through your personalised treatment plan, which may include:

• Surgery: Removal of part or all of the breast (lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, or total mastectomy).
• Chemotherapy: Drug treatment to shrink or eliminate cancer cells.
• Radiotherapy: High-energy radiation targeting cancer cells.
• Adjuvant Therapy: Additional treatments such as chemotherapy, massage, or aromatherapy.

Take Charge of Your Breast Health

Regular self-checks empower you to detect changes early, giving you the best chance of successful treatment if needed. Make it a habit—just once a month—to take a few minutes to check your breasts.

At Ready Health Standish, we are committed to supporting women's health. If you have any concerns, book a private consultation with our expert medical team today.

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise your health.