However, the more you examine your breasts, the more you will learn about them and the easier it will become for you to tell if something unusual has occurred. BSE is an essential part of taking care of yourself and reducing your risk of breast cancer. Examine yourself several days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen and tender. If you are no longer having periods, choose a day that's easy to remember, such as the first or last day of the month. Don't panic if you think you feel a lump.
Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts all the time.
The lower half of your breast can feel like a sandy or pebbly beach. The area under the nipple can feel like a collection of large grains. Another part might feel like a lumpy bowl of oatmeal. What's important is that you get to know the look and feel of YOUR breasts' various neighborhoods. This can be like a small map of your breasts, with notes about where you feel lumps or irregularities.