Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
- BSE should be done monthly
- It should be done the day you complete your cycle
- It should be done on the same day every month, even when you are not menstruat
Steps for BSE
Step 1
Stand in front of a mirror and look at each breast separately. Note the size, shape, colour, contour and direction of your breasts and nipples. Look out for a change in size, inverted nipples, any discharge or any change in the texture of the skin.
Step 2
Raise your arms over your head and look at your breasts, as you turn slowly from side to side. Look out for any swelling or puckering of the skin.
Step 3
Lean forward and examine each breast for change in outline or dimpling of the skin.
Step 4
Now, lying down, using the tips of three of your fingers, feel for any lumps or bumpy areas.
Step 5
Extend the examination to breast tissue in the underarm. Keep moving your hand across the nipple till you feel you have felt all parts of the breast. Feel for lumps under and along the top of the collar bone. Change your hand and repeat the same for the opposite breast.