Finding a lump in your breast can be very unsettling for women when they perform a monthly breast self-check for cancer signs, however, experts say that’s not the only thing you should be on the lookout for.  Heather Chambers, an OSF HealthCare breast health navigator, who is herself a breast cancer survivor says that lumps are the most important sign.

Women should also be aware of skin changes, such as an orange peel skin appearance, flaky skin, irritation, or a new dimple.  Also be aware of an unexpected release of fluid or blood from the nipple, unexpected inversion of a nipple, one breast larger than the other, changes to breast size, any new pain in the breast area, or tenderness, swelling, pain, or lumps under your armpit.  Chambers says this area often gets overlooked since it doesn’t deal with the breast itself.

Chambers recommends that women pick a date to do their breast exam and stick with it.  This way you can put it on your calendar and never forget it.  She says the feel of your breasts can change as days go by but doing it once a month will help give a baseline feel and help avoid false positives.  She also stresses that many women find it convenient to examine themselves in the shower, but regardless of where you do it, a good technique is to move your fingertips in a circle from the outside to the center of the breast, pressing down and feeling for abnormalities.  Another good idea is to take pictures during their self-check to show their provider.  

If you do find something concerning, call your primary care provider or OB/GYN right away and explain what you found.  The provider will likely order a mammogram where the radiologist should read the results on the spot.  If a closer look is needed, you may undergo an ultrasound or a biopsy. Chambers urges calmness and says don’t panic.  

Regularly scheduled mammograms are the most important ways to prevent breast cancer along with a monthly self-check.  Talk to your primary care provider or OB/GYN about what mammogram schedule is best. 

Unchecked breast cancer is a major killer in the US.  The American Cancer Society says that estimated 43,700 women will lose their life to breast cancer in 2023.