How to do a breast self-examination using an up-and-down pattern

How to do a breast self-examination using an up-and-down pattern

Woman doing breast self-examination using an up-and-down pattern

To do this type of breast examination, check the entire breast area by using an up-and-down pattern. Start at one edge of the breast area and move your fingers up and down to the edges of your breast and across the entire breast area. As you move across the breast area, move your fingers in small, coin-sized circles using different levels of pressure.

Check both breasts.

Current as of: August 2, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Wendy Y. Chen MD, MPH - Medical Oncology, Hematology