Breast Self Examination
Step Three
Raise one arm. Use the pads of the fingers of your other hand to check the breast and the surrounding area firmly, carefully, and thoroughly.

Feel for any unusual lump or mass under the skin. Feel the tissue by pressing your fingers in small, overlapping areas about the size of a dime. To be sure you cover your whole breast, take your time and follow a definite pattern: lines, circles, or wedges.

Pay special attention to the area between the breast and the underarm, including the underarm itself. Check the area above the breast, up to the collarbone and all the way over to your shoulder.

Raise your other arm and repeat these steps on your other breast.

Some women prefer to perform this step in the shower. Your fingers will glide easily over soapy skin, so you can concentrate on feeling for changes underneath.

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