How should I notice breast changes, and can self-checks replace mammograms?
Knowing the usual look and feel of your breasts can help you notice changes, but it does not replace mammography or clinical assessment. Recommendations for formal self-examination vary, and a monthly technique alone has not shown a mortality benefit in average-risk women.
Details
What changes matter?
Notice a new breast or armpit lump, persistent skin or nipple changes, altered shape or unusual discharge. Some changes are benign or cycle-related, but touching the area cannot establish the cause.
How should differing advice be understood?
Some health services encourage regular breast awareness, while the American Cancer Society does not recommend a formal self-examination programme as routine screening for average-risk women. You can remain aware of changes without treating self-checking as a test that guarantees there is no cancer.
If something changes
Arrange medical assessment even after a recent normal mammogram. Avoid repeatedly pressing the area throughout the day or delaying advice until next month’s check. The clinician may recommend examination, imaging or further investigation according to the symptoms and findings.
Related reading: Which breast changes may be signs of cancer and need assessment?.