1. Stand before a mirror. Look at both breasts to note anything unusual--changes in shape, protruding veins, discoloration, or any other change from normal. Look for a discharge from the nipples, puckering, dimpling, or scaling of the skin.

2. Check for changes in contour or shape of your breasts. Watching closely in the mirror, clasp your hands behind your head and press your hands forward.

3. Next, press your hands firmly on your hips and bow slightly toward the mirror as you pull your shoulders and elbows forward. This completes the portion of breast self exam in front of the mirror.

4. Some women do the next part of the exam in the shower; your fingers will glide easily over soapy skin. Raise your left arm. Use three or four fingers of your right hand to feel your left breast firmly and thoroughly. Beginning at the outer edge, press the flat part of your fingers in small circles, moving the circles slowly around the breast. You can begin at the outer edges of the breast and gradually work towards the nipple, or vice versa. Be sure to cover the whole breast and to include the area between the breast and the underarm, including the underarm itself. You are feeling for any unusual lumps or mass under the skin.

5. Gently squeeze the nipple and look for a discharge. Report any discharge or unusual lumps to your doctor.

Repeat this same process lying down so that the breast becomes flattened, making it easier to feel lumps or other masses.