Short answer
Often hard, painless and irregular, but not always. Any new lump should be evaluated by a clinician.
Self Breast Exam: How to Do a Breast Self-Exam
Many organizations now emphasize breast self-awareness: knowing your normal and noticing changes. If you like a routine, here’s a simple method:
- Look: in a mirror, check for changes in shape, skin dimpling, redness or nipple changes, with your arms down, raised and on your hips.
- Feel lying down: use the pads of your three middle fingers with light, medium and firm pressure, covering the whole breast in up-and-down strips.
- Include the armpit and the area up to your collarbone.
- Timing: a few days after your period ends, when breasts are least tender.
USA Breast Exam: Quick Facts
- USPSTF mammogram
- Every 2 years, ages 40–74
- High risk
- Yearly MRI + mammogram may be recommended
- Clinical exam length
- About 5–10 minutes
- Self-check timing
- A few days after your period ends
- Density notification
- Required nationwide since Sept 2024
- Coverage
- Screening mammograms $0 (ACA, Medicare)
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.