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Your breasts Breast development Being breast aware

What to look for What to do if you find a change

Breast screening Breast awareness five-point code

Every woman should be breast aware throughout her adult life. It's an important part of caring for your body. It means knowing how your breasts look and feel normally, so you notice any changes that might be unusual for you.

Get into the habit of looking at and feeling your breasts from time to time. There is no set way to do this. You can decide what you're comfortable with and when it's convenient for you. You don't have to look and feel at the same time.

You need to be aware of any changes that are new or different, such as:

• A change in size - one breast may become noticeably larger or lower
• A nipple that has become inverted (pulled in) or changed its position or shape
• A rash on or around the nipple
• Discharge from one or both nipples
• Puckering or dimpling of the skin
• A swelling under your armpit or around your collarbone (where the lymph nodes are)
• A lump or thickening in your breast that feels different from the rest of the breast tissue.
• Constant pain in one part of your breast or armpit

See your GP as soon as possible

See your GP as soon as possible. Don't worry that you may be making an unnecessary fuss and remember most breast changes aren't cancer, even if they do need treatment or a follow-up.

When your GP examines your breasts he or she may be able to reassure you that there's nothing to worry about. If the change may be connected with your hormones, your GP may ask you to come back at a different time in your menstrual cycle. Alternatively, he or she may decide to send you to a breast clinic for a more detailed examination.

Breast Cancer Care has more information about what happens at a breast clinic and the tests used to make a diagnosis .