4 easy steps for your breast self-exam

EVERY woman should know how to perform a breast self-exam (BSE), as this is key to spotting changes in the breasts. Before you start, though, it is important that you know how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can easily detect changes.

You don't have to have a fixed schedule to do your BSE, but it is good to practise doing it regularly, at least once per month. The more you do it, the more aware you will be of your breasts, and it will be much easier to spot if there are any changes.

The best time to do your BSE is when your breasts are not tender or swollen, such as a few days after your period ends. If you happen to feel a lump, don't immediately think that it's the end of the world. Some women have lumpy areas in their breasts all the time. Not every lump is cancerous, but to be on the safe side, bring it to your doctor's attention. Here are four steps to doing your BSE.

Step 1 -- in front of a mirror...... read more