Breast Cancer Prevention

Breast self-exam

The following are guidelines on how to do a breast self-exam at home. If you notice any changes in your breasts, consult your doctor. If you need doctor, find one at Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic.

Checking your breasts in the shower

Raise one arm. With fingers flat, touch every part of each breast, gently feeling for a lump or thickening.

Use your right hand to examine your left breast and your left hand for your right breast.

Checking your breasts in a mirror

With arms at your sides, then raised above your head, look carefully for changes in the size, shape, and contour of each breast.

Look for puckering, dimpling, or changes in skin texture. Gently squeeze both nipples and look for discharge.

Checking your breasts lying down

Place a towel or pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand behind your head.

Examine your right breast with your left hand.

Fingers flat, press gently in small circles, starting at the outermost top edge of your breast and spiraling in toward the nipple.

Examine every part of the breast. Repeat with left breast.

Check your underarm area

With your arm resting on a firm surface, use the same circular motion to examine the underarm area.

This is breast tissue, too.

Clinical breast exam

A clinical breast exam is a physical exam done by a healthcare provider. It's often done during your regular medical check-up. Some women at high risk for development of breast cancer see a breast health specialist for regular exams. Talk to your doctor to help determine if you are at a higher risk for breast cancer.

Breast imaging

There are multiple tests that may be used based on your personal risk. You doctor will help you determine the best test and when to start screening. See what types of imaging services are available at Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic.