(A) Examine breasts during bath or shower because flat fingers glide easily over wet skin. Use right hand to examine left breast and left hand to examine the right breast.

(B) Sit or stand before a mirror. Inspect breasts with hands at sides, then raised overhead. Look for changes in contour or dimpling of skin.

(C) Place hands on hips and press down firmly to flex chest muscles.

(D) Lie down with one hand under head and pillow or folded towel under that scapula.

(E) Palpate that breast with the other hand using concentric circle method. It usually takes three circles to cover all breast tissue. Include the tail of the breast and the axilla. Repeat with other breast.

(F) End in a sitting position. Palpate the areola areas of both breasts, and inspect and squeeze nipples to check for discharge.