A Breast Self-Exam (BSE) is a method that allows individuals, particularly women, to monitor
changes in their breasts to help detect early signs of breast cancer. It is a proactive way to
become familiar with how the breasts normally look and feel, so any unusual changes can be
noticed promptly.
Here’s a guide on how to do a Breast Self-Exam:
Steps for a Breast Self-Exam (BSE):
1. Visual Inspection:
• Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.
• Look for any changes in shape, size, or color. Pay attention to the following:
• Changes in the shape or size of the breasts.
• Redness, swelling, or dimpling of the skin.
• Any changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.
• Any unusual lumps or bulges on the breasts.
2. Check for Nipple Discharge:
• While standing in front of the mirror, gently squeeze the nipple to check for any unusual
discharge (clear, bloody, or milky).
3. Physical Exam:
• Lying Down: Lie down flat with one arm raised over your head and the other arm resting at
your side.
• Use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) and move them in a circular motion. The pressure
should vary:
• Light pressure for the tissue near the skin.
This study source was downloaded by 100000898062787 from CourseHero.com on 09-30-2025 03:58:38 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/251574440/breast-examdocx/
changes in their breasts to help detect early signs of breast cancer. It is a proactive way to
become familiar with how the breasts normally look and feel, so any unusual changes can be
noticed promptly.
Here’s a guide on how to do a Breast Self-Exam:
Steps for a Breast Self-Exam (BSE):
1. Visual Inspection:
• Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips.
• Look for any changes in shape, size, or color. Pay attention to the following:
• Changes in the shape or size of the breasts.
• Redness, swelling, or dimpling of the skin.
• Any changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.
• Any unusual lumps or bulges on the breasts.
2. Check for Nipple Discharge:
• While standing in front of the mirror, gently squeeze the nipple to check for any unusual
discharge (clear, bloody, or milky).
3. Physical Exam:
• Lying Down: Lie down flat with one arm raised over your head and the other arm resting at
your side.
• Use the pads of your fingers (not the tips) and move them in a circular motion. The pressure
should vary:
• Light pressure for the tissue near the skin.
This study source was downloaded by 100000898062787 from CourseHero.com on 09-30-2025 03:58:38 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/251574440/breast-examdocx/
