Breast Health Awareness
Know what's normal for you
Early detection saves lives. Being aware of how your breasts normally look and feel can help you recognize changes that may need medical attention. Breast cancer found in its earliest stages is often more treatable and associated with better outcomes.
According to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, individuals should be familiar with their breasts and promptly report any changes to a health care provider.
What changes should you watch for?
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size, shape, or symmetry
- Persistent skin changes, including redness, rash, dimpling, puckering, or wounds that do not heal
- New nipple inversion or changes in nipple appearance
- Spontaneous nipple discharge, especially if it occurs without squeezing
- Persistent breast pain that is new or unusual for you
Not all breast changes are cancer, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How to perform a breast self-exam
A breast self-exam helps you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. While self-exams do not replace routine mammograms, they can help you identify changes that should be discussed with your provider.
When should you check?
If you menstruate:
- Perform a self-exam once a month, a few days after your period ends, when breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender.
If you do not menstruate:
- Choose the same day each month to perform your self-exam.
Step 1: Look in the mirror
Stand with your shoulders straight and arms at your sides.
Look for:
- Changes in size or shape
- Swelling
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Redness or rash
- Changes in the nipples
Next, raise your arms overhead and look for the same changes.
Step 2: Check while standing or showering
Using the pads of your three middle fingers:
- Move in small circular motions.
- Use light, medium, and firm pressure.
- Cover the entire breast from collarbone to bra line and from the center of the chest to the armpit.
Many people find it easiest to perform this part of the exam in the shower because wet skin allows fingers to move smoothly over the breast tissue.
Step 3: Check while lying down
Lie flat on your back and place a pillow under one shoulder.
- Place the arm on the same side behind your head.
- Use your opposite hand to examine the breast.
- Repeat the circular pattern used while standing.
- Check the entire breast and underarm area.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
Found a lump? Here's what to do
Finding a lump can be alarming, but most breast lumps are not cancerous. The most important step is to have it evaluated.
1. Don't panic
Many breast changes are caused by benign conditions such as cysts, hormonal changes, or fibrocystic breast tissue.
2. Schedule an appointment
Contact your primary care provider, OB-GYN, or breast specialist as soon as possible.
Be prepared to share:
- When you first noticed the lump
- Whether it has changed in size
- Any associated symptoms, such as pain, skin changes, or nipple discharge
- Any family history of breast cancer
3. Complete recommended testing
Your provider may recommend diagnostic imaging, including:
- Diagnostic mammography
- Breast ultrasound
- Breast MRI (when appropriate)
Testing helps determine the cause of the change and guides any next steps.
4. Follow through with care
If additional evaluation is needed, your care team will explain the next steps and connect you with the appropriate specialists.
When should you get a mammogram?
Routine mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer before symptoms appear.
Screening recommendations
- Beginning at age 40, women should receive an annual screening mammogram with tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography.
- Some individuals may need earlier screening due to a genetic mutation, family history, or other risk factors.
- Talk with your primary care provider or OB-GYN about the screening schedule that is right for you.
Your provider can place an order for a screening mammogram.
Are you at higher risk?
Every screening mammogram includes a breast cancer risk assessment.
If your results indicate an elevated lifetime risk of breast cancer, you may be referred to our High-Risk Breast Program for a personalized evaluation and screening plan.
The program may help identify:
- Family history patterns that increase risk
- Genetic factors associated with breast cancer
- Additional screening recommendations
- Risk-reduction strategies
Take Charge of Your Breast Health
Knowing your body, reporting changes promptly, and staying current with mammogram screenings are important steps in protecting your health.
Whether you're due for a routine screening or have concerns about a recent breast change, our team is here to help.