The breast should be gently stroked toward the nipple, and the nipple squeezed very gently to look for discharge. The palpation of the breasts can be done lying down or standing in the shower. If lying down, place a small pillow or folded towel under the shoulder of the breast to be examined. Place the same side arm overhead and examine the breast using the opposite hand. using the finger pads of the three middle fingers, feel for lumps in each breast using alternate light and deep pressure. A firm ridge, known as inframmamary tissue is normal and noticeable in the lower curve of each breast.
Some women report greater sensitivity when using soapy water and prefer the shower method.
The vertical strip method is thought to give the more complete exam, but the best approach is to use the most comfortable method and do it consistently and completely. The American Cancer Society has a diagram of these methods. Self examination, clinical examination and mammography for more subtle breast changes will diagnose breast cancers at an earlier, more curable, stage. If a woman has questions or concerns, she can obtain further review and instruction in self-examination techniques or have a suspicious finding investigated properly. More often, it provides reassurance and guidance, as most conditions of the breast are, fortunately, benign.