Checking your breasts: what to look for and when to see a doctor
According to the NHS, there is no single right way to check your breasts – the aim is to look at and feel them about once a month, so you know what is normal for you. Worrying changes are a lump or swelling in the breast or armpit, a change in the skin or nipple, discharge from the nipple and persistent pain. Most lumps are benign, but any new change should be checked by a doctor.
- The NHS recommends checking your breasts about once a month, so that you get to know what is normal for you.
- Breasts can look and feel different during the menstrual cycle, in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and after menopause.
- Changes you should get checked by a doctor include a lump, dimpling of the skin (like orange peel), redness, a change in size or shape, discharge from the nipple and a nipple that has turned inwards.
- According to nidirect, around 90% of breast lumps are benign and are most often linked to hormonal changes.
- Do not wait for your routine screening appointment – if you notice a change, see a doctor as soon as possible.
How do I check my breasts properly?
According to the NHS, there is no complicated technique – the important thing is to do it regularly. Stand in front of a mirror and look at your breasts first with your arms relaxed, then with your arms raised, to notice any changes in shape or skin. Then feel each breast with circular movements – from the armpit up towards the collarbone – with light and then firmer pressure, without causing yourself pain. Do not skip the area around and on the nipple.
The NHS notes that the tissue is easier to feel in the shower or lying down. The rule is simple: check about once a month, so that you get to know what is normal for your body.
What is normal for breasts and what is not?
According to the NHS, breasts often differ in size, so look for changes that are unusual specifically for you. They can look and feel different during the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and after menopause – this is expected. Once you know your own rhythm, you will be able to tell normal fluctuations from new changes.
Which breast changes should make me pay attention?
The NHS lists the signs that should not be ignored:
- a lump or swelling in the breast, chest or armpit;
- changes in the skin – dimpling that looks like orange peel, or redness (on dark skin, redness is harder to see);
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts;
- discharge from the nipple, which may contain blood – if you are not pregnant or breastfeeding;
- a change in the shape or appearance of the nipple – for example a nipple that has turned inwards or a rash that looks like eczema;
- sores or ulcers on the skin.
To these, nidirect adds a thickened area of tissue and persistent pain in the breast or armpit.
What most often causes breast lumps?
According to nidirect, most lumps – around 90% – are benign and are most often linked to hormonal changes, for example during the menstrual cycle. The most common causes are a fibroadenoma (a firm lump that moves easily within the breast, more typical in young women), a cyst (a smooth, firm, fluid-filled lump, most common in women aged 30–60) and an abscess (a painful collection of pus, usually from a bacterial infection). Benign lumps do not always need treatment – according to nidirect, it is recommended if the lump is large, growing or causing pain.
What happens at the doctor's if I find a lump?
According to nidirect, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and ask for permission to examine your breasts – you can ask for a nurse to be present too. If they find a lump, they will routinely refer you to a specialist, and the possible tests are an ultrasound scan and a mammogram. A referral does not mean the doctor suspects cancer – in most people who go through these tests, a benign condition is found.
When should you see a doctor?
According to the NHS and nidirect, see a doctor if you notice:
- a lump or swelling in the breast, chest or armpit;
- a change in the breast, chest or nipple that is not normal for you;
- pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away;
- discharge from the nipple, especially with blood;
- dimpling or redness of the skin, a rash around the nipple or a nipple that has turned inwards;
- a change in the size or shape of one of the breasts.
The NHS stresses that these symptoms are common and often have other causes – they do not necessarily mean cancer, but they should be checked, because finding it early makes treatment easier. nidirect adds: do not wait for your routine screening appointment if you notice a problem – see a doctor as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my breasts?
The NHS recommends about once a month – not for the sake of a particular technique, but so that you get to know what is normal for you and notice changes in time.
Is it normal for my breasts to be different sizes?
Yes. According to the NHS, breasts often differ in size and this in itself is not a problem – what matters are changes that are unusual for you.
Does a referral to a specialist mean I have cancer?
No. According to nidirect, a referral for an ultrasound scan or mammogram is routine practice when a lump is found, and in most people the tests show a benign condition.
Sources
- NHS – How to check your breasts or chest – last reviewed by the NHS: 19 July 2024
- nidirect – Breast lumps – page last updated: 20 December 2024
Informational article retold in our own words from the sources listed. It does not replace a consultation with a doctor; in an emergency call 112. If you spot an inaccuracy, write to [email protected].