When it comes to breast cancer, early detection saves lives. One of the simplest ways to catch changes early is to know your normal — that means understanding what’s typical for your body so you can spot anything unusual.

While mammograms and regular checkups are essential, a monthly self-exam is a quick, empowering habit that can make a huge difference.

 

Step 1: Look — Know Your Shape and Skin

Start by standing in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your hands on your hips. Take a good look at your breasts. You’re checking for any changes in:

• Shape or size

• Dimpling, puckering, or bulging of the skin

• Redness, rash, or swelling

• Changes in the nipple (like inversion or discharge)

Then, raise your arms and check again. You’re looking for anything that seems off or asymmetrical — something that wasn’t there before.

 

Step 2: Feel — Use Your Hands to Check for Changes

Lie down and use your right hand to feel your left breast, and vice versa. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few fingers of your hand, keeping them flat and together.
Move in small circular motions, about the size of a quarter, covering the entire breast from top to bottom and side to side — from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.

You can move your fingers in:

• A circular pattern from the outside toward the nipple

• Vertical lines up and down (like mowing the lawn) — this method is often easiest for many people.

Then, repeat the process while standing or sitting — many people find it easiest in the shower, when skin is slick.

 

Step 3: Know What’s “Normal” for You

Breasts naturally feel different from person to person. Lumpy areas, firmness, or tenderness can all be normal — especially during certain times in your cycle.
The key is noticing what’s new or unusual for you.

Call your doctor if you notice:

• A lump or thickened area that feels different from the rest

• Swelling or pain in one spot

• Skin irritation or dimpling

• Nipple changes or discharge (that isn’t breast milk)

It doesn’t always mean cancer — but it always means it’s worth checking out.

 

Take Action — Know, Check, Repeat

Set a monthly reminder — same time every month — to do your self-exam. It takes less than five minutes and could save your life.

And if you’re 40 or older (or have a family history of breast cancer), talk to your doctor about when to start mammograms and how often you should get them.

 

Local Screenings on the Shore

Throughout October, TidalHealth’s Mobile Mammogram Unit is visiting communities across the Shore, including Salisbury, Cambridge, and Pocomoke City. To schedule an appointment, call 410-543-7006 or visit tidalhealth.org/pink for the full schedule.

Because when you know your normal, you give yourself the best chance to stay healthy — and that’s something to feel good about.