Stay Abreast of Your Boobs:

Your Breast Self-Exam Guide

What is a breast self-exam?

Most experts agree: early detection saves lives. But how can you spot something abnormal… if you don’t know what normal feels like? That’s where the breast self-exam comes in. It’s your monthly check-in — a moment to pause, look, and feel for any changes in your breast tissue, chest area, or nipples.

This practice isn’t just for women. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate — so no matter your gender (or your age), it’s never too early to start checking in with your body.

Not sure what to look for? We’ve got you. Scroll down for the common signs to watch for and a simple step-by-step guide to walk you through a self-exam with confidence. Your body speaks — this is how you learn to listen.

Where Should I Check My Breasts?

  1. While looking in the mirror where you can see visible changes.

  2. In the bath/shower using a soapy hand to glide over your skin.

  3. Laying in bed to feel around your tissue in a different position than while standing.

How Do I Check My Breasts?

Step 1:

While standing in front of a mirror, check your breasts for any visible changes.

Be sure to check with your arms in these three positions: resting at your side, resting on the hips, & raised above your head.

Step 2:

In a circular pattern, work your fingers from outer to inner breast, ending at the nipple.

Step 3:

In a linear pattern, finger crawl up & down each breast, ending at the cleavage.

Step 4:

While standing, feel both breasts entirely, focusing one quadrant at a time.

Step 5:

Now while laying down, feel for lumps & bumps throughout both breasts.

Don’t Forget to Check:

The collarbones, underarms, & nipples should be included in your exam each month.

What Should I Look For?

When you’re checking your chest, here’s what to keep an eye (and hand) out for:

Should I Check My Chest After Mastectomy?

Even after a mastectomy, chest checks matter.

Here’s what to look for:

• Lumps, thickening, or changes around your scar

• Skin changes or swelling

• Unusual sensations or pain

• Shifts in your implant shape, firmness, or position

You’re looking for more than just signs of cancer recurrence. Whether you have implants, flap reconstruction, or no reconstruction at all, knowing what’s normal for you helps you spot what’s not. Your chest has been through a lot — let’s keep caring for it.

Know Your Normal.

Stay abreast of your boobs and make it a habit to check yourself each month using this simple guide. Pro tip: the shower is a great place to start — soapy water makes it easier to glide your fingers over your skin. It’s also recommended to check your breast tissue both standing and lying down to make sure nothing gets missed.

And don’t forget: men can get breast cancer too. Everyone has breast tissue, and everyone deserves to stay in tune with their body.