Wichai Vassanasiri, M.D.
-    Head of Surgical Oncology Unit Phramongkutlao Hospital
-    Consultant Breast Surgeon ­Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital

You should carry out a self-examination monthly after you pass the age of 25. Dr. Wichai Vassanasiri says the ideal time to do it is anywhere between 7-10 days after your menstrual cycle because the breasts are soft and any lumps (which can be potentially cancerous tumors) can be felt more easily. Here’s how to do it:

Look

A. Face the mirror and raise your hands up to see if you have any dimpling.
B. Put your hands on your waist then push down. Muscles around the breasts will contract. Again, check for dimpling.

Feel

1. Do this in the shower. When your skin is slippery, it’s easier to feel any lumps.
2. Inspect your left breast with your right hand and your right breast with your left hand.
3. Press your fingers on the outside of your breasts and circle inwards, to wards the nipple, clockwise then counter-clock wise. Make sure you cover the whole breast. Repeat from the nipple to the outside.
4. Repeat with an up and down motion.
5. Repeat with a radial motion.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 while lying down.
7. Squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge.