How to Give Yourself a Breast Exam and Why It's So Important

At Nea Naturals, we’re passionate about taking care of your skin, but we also want to help you take care of your overall health. One of the easiest and most effective ways to stay on top of your health is by giving yourself regular breast self-exams. While self-exams are not a replacement for professional screenings, they’re an important step in noticing any changes early and being proactive about your well-being.

Here’s how you can do it—and why it matters.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

1. Start by Looking
   Stand in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed by your sides. Look at your breasts for any visible changes in size, shape, or symmetry. Check for any dimpling, puckering, or changes in skin texture. Raise your arms above your head and look again for any changes.

2. Feel While Lying Down
   Lie down on your back with one arm above your head. Use the pads of your opposite hand’s fingers to gently press your breast, moving in small circular motions. Start at the outer edge and work your way toward the nipple. Be sure to cover the entire breast and armpit area. Repeat this process for the other breast.

3. Feel While Standing or in the Shower
   Many women find it easiest to feel their breasts when the skin is wet and slippery, so doing this part of the exam in the shower can be helpful. With one arm raised, use the opposite hand to feel your breast in circular motions, again covering the entire breast and armpit area.

4. Check for Any Changes
   What you’re looking for is anything out of the ordinary—lumps, thickening, or hardened knots. Remember that breasts can naturally feel lumpy, especially at certain times in your menstrual cycle, but if you notice any new or unusual changes, it’s important to get them checked out by a healthcare professional.

Why Breast Self-Exams Are So Important

Breast self-exams can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, which makes it easier to notice any changes. Catching these changes early is key to getting prompt medical attention, which could potentially save your life.

Here are a few reasons why breast self-exams matter:

1. Early Detection
   Early detection of breast cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Breast self-exams can help you notice changes before they become more serious, giving you the best chance at early intervention.

2. Empowerment
   Taking control of your health is empowering. By performing regular self-exams, you become more in tune with your body, which helps you feel confident and proactive in your health journey.

3. Health Awareness
   Breast self-exams raise your overall awareness of breast health. When you make it a habit to regularly check yourself, you're more likely to be mindful of other important aspects of your health, like scheduling regular mammograms and doctor’s visits.

4. It’s Quick and Simple
   Self-exams take just a few minutes and can easily become part of your monthly routine. Whether you’re in the shower or lying down before bed, setting aside this small amount of time can make a big difference.

When to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

It’s best to perform a breast self-exam once a month, ideally a few days after your period when breasts are less tender or swollen. If you no longer have periods, choose a specific day each month to help you remember.

Remember: It’s Not a Replacement for Professional Care

While breast self-exams are an important part of your health routine, they’re not a substitute for mammograms or visits to your doctor. Be sure to schedule regular check-ups and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for breast cancer screenings based on your age and risk factors.

At Nea Naturals, we’re all about encouraging healthy habits that support your well-being. Giving yourself regular breast self-exams is a simple yet powerful way to take control of your health, and we’re here to remind you that your health comes first—always.