Before you continue
By clicking “Accept All”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.
How to Do a Breast Self-Examination?

How to Do a Breast Self-Examination: The FUH Guide to Breast Self-Awareness

Breast self-examination is one of the simplest and most effective ways for women to take control of their health. In Dubai, where healthcare awareness is growing rapidly, learning how to perform a breast self-examination can help in the early detection of breast cancer.

At Fakeeh University Hospital, we aim to educate and support women and men to understand their breast health, recognize changes early, and seek medical advice when needed. During Breast Cancer Awareness Dubai campaigns, our goal is to empower everyone to take preventive steps toward better health.

Early detection of breast cancer can save lives. When identified early, treatment is more effective, recovery is faster, and outcomes are far more positive.

Why Is Breast Self-Examination Important

A breast self-examination helps you understand how your breasts normally look and feel. This awareness makes it easier to notice any unusual changes that may occur over time.

Benefits of performing regular self-examinations include:

  • Detecting early warning signs before they become serious
  • Increasing awareness of your own body
  • Supporting early diagnosis and treatment
  • Building confidence and removing fear around breast health

Breast self-examination does not replace a mammogram or a clinical exam. However, it is an important first step in early detection and self-care.

Common Breast Changes to Watch For

Every woman’s body is unique. However, some changes in the breast should be checked by a doctor.

Changes to look out for include:

  • A lump or thickened area that feels different from the rest of the breast
  • A change in size, shape, or appearance of the breast
  • Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin
  • Nipple discharge that is unusual or sticky
  • Crusty or scaly skin on or around the nipple
  • Inverted nipple that suddenly turns inward
  • Visible veins or swelling that appear unexpectedly
  • Pain or tenderness that does not go away

These changes do not always mean breast cancer, but they do mean you should speak with a healthcare professional for evaluation.

When Should You Perform a Breast Self-Examination

The best time to perform a breast self-examination depends on your menstrual cycle and age.

  1. For women who have periods: Do your self-exam a few days after your period ends. At this time, your breasts are less tender and less swollen.
  2. For women who no longer have periods: Choose a regular day each month that is easy to remember, such as the first day of the month.
  3. For pregnant or breastfeeding women: Self-examinations are still important, but they should be done gently. Speak to your doctor at Fakeeh University Hospital for advice on how to do it safely during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Making self-examination a monthly routine will help you become familiar with your breast tissue and notice changes earlier.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination Step by Step

Performing a breast self-examination takes only a few minutes and can be done at home. You only need a mirror and a few quiet minutes.

Breast Self-Examination Step by Step
Breast Self-Examination Step by Step

Step 1: Look in the Mirror

  • Stand straight with your arms by your sides.
  • Look for any changes in shape, color, or skin texture.
  • Raise both arms and look again. Check for dimples, bulges, or unevenness.
  • Look under your collarbone and around your armpits for any swelling.

Step 2: Feel While Standing or Sitting

  • Use the inner pads of your three middle fingers.
  • Move your fingers in small circular motions around your breast, like following the numbers on a clock.
  • Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to feel all layers of breast tissue.
  • Make sure to check the area from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen and from your armpit to your cleavage.

Step 3: Feel While Lying Down

  • Lie flat on your back with a pillow under one shoulder.
  • Use your opposite hand to examine the breast on that side.
  • This position spreads the breast tissue evenly, making it easier to feel lumps or thickened areas.

Step 4: Record Your Observations

After the examination, note any changes you notice. Keep a small journal of what you feel each month. Over time, this will help you identify if something new or unusual develops.

If you find a lump or change that does not go away after your next menstrual cycle, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

What Should You Do If You Find a Lump

Finding a lump can be worrying, but it is important to stay calm. Not all lumps are cancerous. Many are caused by hormonal changes, cysts, or benign (non-cancerous) conditions.

Here is what you should do:

  • Do not panic or press the area repeatedly.
  • Note when you first found it and whether it changes over time.
  • If the lump stays or grows, schedule a consultation with a breast specialist.

At Fakeeh University Hospital, our breast health specialists provide expert evaluation using advanced imaging techniques. Early consultation helps you get the right diagnosis and treatment quickly.

How Often Should You Have a Professional Breast Check-Up

While self-examinations are important, they should not replace professional screenings.

General guidelines include:

  • Women aged 20 to 39: Self-exam every month and a clinical exam every three years.
  • Women aged 40 and older: Self-exam every month and a mammogram every year.
  • Women at higher risk: Speak with your doctor about a personalized screening plan.

At Fakeeh University Hospital, our team of radiologists, oncologists, and breast surgeons use the latest technology to provide comprehensive breast care, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies when necessary.

Why Breast Self-Examination Is Crucial in Dubai

Dubai has become a hub for modern healthcare, but breast cancer continues to affect many women each year. Early detection and awareness are essential to improving survival rates and outcomes.

Reasons why awareness is important in Dubai:

  • Growing focus on preventive healthcare
  • Increasing participation in Breast Cancer Awareness Dubai campaigns
  • Availability of advanced screening and diagnostic services
  • Strong community support for early detection and education

At Fakeeh University Hospital, we work closely with the community to promote awareness and help individuals understand the importance of early detection.

What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can develop in anyone, but some factors increase the risk.

Common risk factors include:

  • Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
  • Age, especially after 40
  • Early menstruation or late menopause
  • Hormonal therapy after menopause
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Obesity or unhealthy diet
  • Excessive alcohol use
  • Radiation exposure

Understanding your risk helps you take steps to protect your health and plan regular screenings.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer

Although breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can lower your risk.

Practical tips to reduce risk include:

  • Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Avoid smoking
  • Breastfeed if possible
  • Get regular medical check-ups
  • Manage stress with healthy coping methods

Adopting these habits, along with regular self-examinations, can make a real difference in maintaining long-term breast health.

Expert Care and Screening in Dubai

While the BSE is a great tool for self-awareness, it does not replace professional screening. Early detection through regular mammograms is what saves the most lives.

Fakeeh University Hospital is committed to comprehensive breast care. We offer advanced diagnostic services and a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure you receive expert care. Women over the age of 40 should discuss scheduling an annual screening mammogram with their healthcare provider.

For more information, watch this video on How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam. This video provides a visual guide on the different hand movements and what to look for during a self-examination.

Breast Cancer Awareness at Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai

Fakeeh University Hospital plays an active role in promoting breast health awareness across Dubai. Through educational programs and screening initiatives, the hospital helps individuals understand the importance of early detection.

Our initiatives include:

  • Organizing community awareness events during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October
  • Offering breast screening packages
  • Conducting workshops on self-examination and early detection
  • Providing expert consultations and follow-up care
  • Educating younger generations on preventive health

Our approach focuses on awareness, education, and accessibility, ensuring every person feels empowered to take care of their health.

FAQs

How often should I do a breast self-exam?
Scroll Down

You should perform a breast self-exam once every month, preferably a few days after your menstrual period.

Can men perform breast self-examinations?
Scroll Down

Yes. Men can also develop breast cancer, although it is rare. Regular checks can help identify any unusual changes early.

Can breast pain mean cancer?
Scroll Down

Not necessarily. Pain can result from hormonal changes, but ongoing or unusual pain should be checked by a doctor.

Is self-examination enough to detect breast cancer?
Scroll Down

No. Self-examination is an important first step but should be combined with clinical exams and mammograms for accurate detection.

At what age should I start breast self-examinations?
Scroll Down

It is recommended to start in your early twenties to become familiar with your breast health.

RELATED POSTS

Empowering Lives: The Significance of Breast Cancer Early Diagnosis

Empowering Lives: The Significance of Breast Cancer Early Diagnosis

VIEW DETAILS
Lesser-known facts about Breast Cancer

Lesser-known facts about Breast Cancer

VIEW DETAILS
When it comes to male breast cancer, awareness is key

When it comes to male breast cancer, awareness is key

VIEW DETAILS