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Breast Self Exam for Women

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 3, 2024.

What is a breast self-exam (BSE)?

A BSE is a way to check your breasts for lumps and other changes. Regular BSEs can help you know how your breasts normally look and feel. Most breast lumps or changes are not cancer, but you should always have them checked by a healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can also watch you do a BSE and can tell you if you are doing your BSE correctly.

Why should I do a BSE?

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. Even if you have mammograms, you may still want to do a BSE regularly. If you know how your breasts normally feel and look, it may help you know when to contact your healthcare provider. Mammograms can miss some cancers. You may find a lump during a BSE that did not show up on a mammogram.

When should I do a BSE?

If you have periods, you may want to do your BSE 1 week after your period ends. This is the time when your breasts may be the least swollen, lumpy, or tender. You can do regular BSEs even if you are breastfeeding or have breast implants.

How should I do a BSE?


What else can I do to check for breast problems or cancer?

Talk to your healthcare provider about mammograms. A mammogram is an x-ray of your breasts to screen for breast cancer or other problems. Your provider can tell you the benefits and risks of mammograms. The timing depends on your risk factors for breast cancer. Experts recommend a mammogram every 2 years from age 40 to 74 if you are at average risk. You may need to start earlier and get a yearly mammogram if you are at high risk. Mammograms are usually done every 1 to 2 years until age 74. You may need other tests if you have dense (thick) breast tissue. Examples include an ultrasound, MRI, or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). Your provider can give you more information about these tests, if needed.


When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

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