How To Check Your Breasts
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK with almost 50,000 women diagnosed each year. Like many forms of cancer, early detection is key and can help increase the chances of successful treatment.
Breast cancer can affect any woman or man of any age, and at any stage in life. That’s why it’s so important to check your breasts regularly and get to know what’s normal for you. Around 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and about 1 in 100 cases occur in men, making regular self-checks a vital part of looking after your health.
Remember: Early. Detection. Saves. Lives.
How To Check Your Breasts and Chest
It is recommended to check your breasts on a regular basis to understand what looks and feels normal for you. All breasts are different, so whether you’re looking for lumps, bumps, swelling or just something out of the ordinary, it’s important for you to know what’s typical for you and what isn’t.
- Start by looking at your breasts or chest in the mirror, first with your arms relaxed by your sides and then raised. Look for any visual changes in shape, size, or skin appearance.
- Next, use your fingers to feel around each breast or side of your chest in gentle circular motions, moving up to your collarbone and under each armpit. Use a mix of light and firm pressure, just enough to feel the tissue without causing discomfort.
- Be sure to also feel around and over each nipple.
You might find it easier to do this in the shower or while lying down, when your skin is softer and it’s easier to feel for changes.
What To Look Out For When Checking Your Breasts
It’s not just lumps that you should be looking out for. There are several other indicators of breast cancer that you should be keeping an eye out for too.
Symptoms to look and feel for when checking your breasts or chest include:
- A lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
- Puckering, dimpling or swelling in the breast, armpit or collarbones
- An unusual change in shape or size
- Nipple discharge
- Nipple inversion and changes in direction
There are times when your breasts may look or feel a little different. For example, during your menstrual cycle, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or after menopause. These changes are completely normal. Checking your breasts regularly throughout your cycle and at different stages of life helps you get to know what’s normal for you, making it easier to spot anything unusual early on.
What to Do If You Find a Lump or Notice Changes in Your Breasts
Don’t Panic
Firstly don’t panic. We know it’s easier said than done, however most women find lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts, and most breast lumps turn out to be benign (not cancerous).
Contact Your GP For An Appointment
If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts, contact your doctor and make an appointment. Most changes turn out to be harmless, but checking early gives you peace of mind and the best chance for prompt treatment if needed. If your doctor thinks further investigation is necessary, you’ll be referred to a breast clinic, where caring specialists will guide you through every step and provide the advice and support you need.
Lounges Feel Your Breast Campaign
Lounge's annual Feel Your Breast campaign has raised over £1 million for Breast Cancer Awareness since 2018 and continues to make an impact and raise awareness with The Lounge Foundation.
Every penny raised during the campaign allows The Lounge Foundation to better support women affected by cancer, helping them make forever memories with their families, providing access to essential post-treatment therapy, or simply get through cancer treatment a little easier.
We're also proud to continue supporting our charity partners thanks to the generous donations given during the Feel Your Breast campaign.