Know Your Breasts
No matter what your age, breast health starts with knowing your breasts. You should be aware of what is normal for your breasts even if you are having regular screening tests. Many women discover their own breast cancer through changes in the look and feel of their breasts.
Breast tissue covers an area larger than just the breast. It extends up to the collarbone and from the armpit across to the breastbone in the centre of the chest. The breasts sit on the chest muscles that cover the ribs.
Become familiar with your breast tissue by looking at and feeling your breasts. Experts used to suggest that this should be done by following a particular method every month. Research has shown that this isn’t necessary. There really isn’t a right or wrong way to check your breasts, as long as you get to know the whole area of your breast tissue – up to your collarbone, under your armpits and including your nipples – well enough to notice changes. So get to know your breasts and what is normal for you, any way that works best for you.
It may be normal for your breasts to be lumpy or tender before your period. Breast tissue changes with age, too. Understanding what is normal for you will help you recognize changes and know what to report to your doctor.
Learn more about what to look for
Men have breasts too…Check yourself!
