The American Cancer Society recommends women twenty years of age and older practice monthly breast self-examination. Those children and adolescents that received radiation therapy to the chest region for cancer such as Hodgkin s Disease should be taught the technique at an even earlier age. The woman should continue performing breast self-examinations for the rest of her life. Breasts should be examined once each month, 7-10 days after the start of the menstrual period. The breast texture and contour changes in relation to the menstrual cycle.
Visual inspection consists of standing in front of a mirror with the breasts uncovered.
Observe the contour of each breast. Notice the size of each breast, shape, and nipple position. Make mental notes of each of these parameters and compare for any changes each month. Next, raise arms over your head and note any changes in the skin or dimpling of the skin. Then place your hands on your hips looking for dimpling or skin changes.