BREAST SELFEXAMINATION

Studies have shown that when women examine themselves regularly, they are more likely to pick up cancers and other abnormalities at an earlier stage, which increases their chance of surviving. Breast specialist Dr Sarah Rayne offers guidance on how to do it:

STEP 1: TOUCH

Lie down and put your hand behind your head to stretch the breast out and make it easier to feel. Start feeling the tissue beside the armpit, and move around the breast in a circle.

STEP 2: LOOK

Look at your breasts in the mirror. Are they symmetrical? Do they look the same, or are there new differences? Lift your arms over your head, and see if both breasts look the same – or if one is pulling in a new way.

STEP 3: CHECK IT OUT

Don’t be shy to get it checked out. If there’s something new or worrying about your breasts, go for a mammogram and see a qualified professional, who can tell you whether what you feel or see is a problem or not.