How to check your breasts for any changes
Every person’s body is different. You should know what your breasts look and feel like normally. Then you will be able to notice any changes or lumps.
Use a mirror to check for changes in your breasts that you can see.
Check for changes in your breasts that you can feel. It may be easier to do this somewhere private, like in the shower or bath.
Changes to look for:
- Changes in the shape of your breasts or nipples
- Lumps in your breasts or underarms
- Changes to the way the skin on your breast looks or feels
- Any liquid coming out of your nipples
- Your nipple turning in
How to check your breasts:
- Feel all over each breast, then around the nipple areas
- Then feel under your arms
- If you find any changes or lumps in your breasts or your underarms, it is very important to see your doctor as soon as you can
NHS: Advice on how to check your breasts
Breast awareness: Looking out for changes (PDF)
NHS: Advice on how to check your breasts
Other useful resources
Be Cancer Aware
NI Cancer Registry Queen’s University Belfast
Cancer Research UK
Breast Cancer Now
Breast cancer types
