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A Guide to checking your boobs (breasts)

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Adult Learning Disability Service

 

 

A document version of this information is available to download and print.

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Why?

woman standing in front of a mirror

It is important to check your boobs (breasts) regularly.

You will then notice changes in your boobs (breasts).

You may find a lump which could be an early sign of cancer.

hand moving over breast in a circular movement

Feel around your boobs (breasts) in a circular movement.

woman feeling behind her nipple

Feel behind your nipple.

woman standing in front of a mirror with her hands on her waist

You can look for any changes in your boobs (breasts) in the mirror.

woman standing in front of a mirror with her hands on her waist

Look in the mirror, put your arms on your hips and look at your boobs (breasts).

woman standing in front of a mirror with her arms raised above her head

Put your arms above your head and look at your boobs (breasts).

What to look for

Inverted nipple

A nipple that has changed-going in instead of out (Inverted nipple)

lump

Lump

dimpling

Dimpling

dripping

Dripping

red rash

Redness, rash

breast with red rings showing an area of pain

Pain

breasts

One breast bigger than the other

When to check your breasts?

calendar

Try to check your boobs (breasts) at least once a month at the same time of the month.

The best time is 1 week after your period.

Where do we check our boobs (breasts)?

house

This can be done in private in your own home.

woman lying down checking her breasts

On your bed.

woman in the shower checking her breasts

In your shower.

telephone

If you find any changes in your boobs (breasts), phone your doctor for an appointment.

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