How to check your breasts
Know what is normal for you.
A gentle guide to noticing breast changes and knowing when to ask a health professional for help.
This guide cannot tell you whether a change is cancer. Only a qualified health professional can assess symptoms.
Look
With your arms relaxed, then raised, look at your breasts and nipples in a mirror. Notice changes in shape, size, skin or nipple position.
Feel
Using the flat pads of your fingers, gently feel the whole breast and underarm area. You can do this in the shower or lying down. Use a pattern that helps you cover the whole area.
Notice changes
Look out for a new lump or thickening, skin dimpling or redness, a nipple turning inward, unusual discharge, or a change that is new for you.
Speak to a health professional
If you notice a new or persistent change, arrange an assessment at a clinic or with a health professional as soon as you can. Many changes are not cancer, but they should be checked.
The linked external health resources are in English. You can ask a health professional or interpreter to explain them in your preferred language.