Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but any woman discovering a lump should consult a doctor. One method of self-examination is shown above. Self-examination should be performed monthly because treatment is more successful in the early stages of breast cancer.
Many experts recommend monthly self-examination of the breasts.
This can be performed while standing or sitting in front of a mirror or even while taking a shower. However, it is desirable to observe the shape of the breasts in a mirror in addition to feeling for any abnormal changes in the consistency of the breast tissues. The visual examination should be made first with the arms raised and then with the arms hanging loosely by the sides. The light should fall evenly on the chest from the front, which will aid in recognizing any dimpling of the skin or changes in the size or shape of the breasts. Lumps may well be painless but should not be ignored.