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OnkoVodič – Rak Dojke Srbija
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Step 1

Know your body

Breast self-examination – know your body
Once a month, perform a . Best 3–5 days after your period, when breasts are calmest. If you don't have a period, choose the same day each month. The better you know how your breasts look and feel when healthy, the easier you'll notice a change.
When?

Once a month. 3–5 days after menstruation; without a period – the same date each month (with a reminder if needed).

In front of the mirror

Observe shape and symmetry, skin (tightening, "orange peel" texture, redness), nipples (retraction/discharge). Raise your arms, then hands on hips and slightly tense your chest.

In the shower and lying down

With the pads of 3 fingers, go over the entire breast in circular spirals (light, medium, and firm pressure), then the armpit and area above the collarbone. Lying down – pillow under the shoulder, arm above the head.

What to watch for

New lump or thickening, skin/nipple retraction, redness/warmth, skin peeling, asymmetry, unusual discharge (especially bloody).

Record

Write down observations and dates. If you notice something new, note the size/position (e.g., "upper left, 2 cm from nipple").

Reminder

Set a monthly alarm on your phone or use an app. Routine helps you not forget.

Important

Self-examination does not replace and . It is the first step in personal care and early recognition of changes.

If you feel or notice something

Slow down, repeat in 1–2 weeks (outside PMS). If it's still there or changing – contact your or . Most often, these are harmless changes, but it is the doctor who will determine what it is.

I have implants – can I do a self-exam?

Yes. Feel the breasts in circular motions around the implants and toward the armpit. At imaging, always mention that you have implants – radiologists adjust techniques.

Pregnancy/breastfeeding – does self-exam make sense?

Yes, but breasts are denser and more sensitive. If you notice redness, warmth, pain, and elevated temperature – it could be mastitis, but always check any change with a doctor.

Does pain always mean a problem?

No. Hormonal changes can cause pain. What matters is if the symptom is new and persistent – if pain doesn't go away and is accompanied by a lump/redness, contact a doctor.

When to see a doctor immediately?

  • Bloody or clear-yellow nipple discharge.
  • Rapidly growing lump, retracted skin/nipple.
  • Warm, red breast swelling with elevated temperature.

How exactly to do a self-exam?

  1. Mirror: look at your breasts from the front and side, with arms up and on hips.
  2. Shower: circular movements with 3 fingers (light/medium/firm pressure) – entire breast area, then armpit and zone above the collarbone.
  3. Lying down: put a pillow under your shoulder, raise your arm above your head. With circular movements, examine the entire breast, then the armpit.

Change diary

If you notice something new, write down the date, size, and location. Repeat the exam in 1–2 weeks (outside PMS). If it's still there – schedule an appointment.

Early detection saves lives

Self-examination is the first step, but doesn't replace screening. In the next step (Early Detection step) we will discuss and other examinations carried out for early detection.

Who should I contact?

If you notice a persistent change, contact your or at the health center. If needed, you'll receive a referral for imaging.