Breast palpation: how to identify an abnormality

Knowing the usual appearance and texture of your breasts can help you notice an unusual change.

A lump, an area that feels harder than usual, or a change in the skin or nipple does not necessarily mean that it is cancer. However, any new or unusual change should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Breast palpation cannot diagnose cancer on its own. It can, however, help identify a potential abnormality.

How to examine your breasts visually

Before palpating your breasts, you can start by looking at them in a mirror.

Pay attention to:

• their shape and size;
• the appearance of the skin;
• the position and appearance of the nipples;
• any recent changes.

It is normal for the two breasts not to be perfectly symmetrical and for their appearance to change throughout life.

The main goal is to notice a change that was not there before.

How to perform breast palpation

Breast palpation can be performed either standing, for example in the shower, or lying down.

Using the pads of the three middle fingers, gently palpate the breast using small circular movements.

Gradually cover the entire breast, from the collarbone to the lower part of the breast and from the sternum to the armpit, making sure not to overlook the underarm area.

You can use different levels of pressure to explore the different depths of the breast tissue.

The aim is not simply to look for a “lump”, but to become familiar with the usual texture of your breasts and to be able to notice any changes.

What changes should you pay attention to?

Certain signs should lead you to seek medical advice:

• a new lump or harder area in the breast or under the arm;
• a recent change in the shape or size of a breast;
• a change in the skin, such as dimpling, redness, swelling or an orange-peel appearance;
• a change in the nipple or areola;
• unusual nipple discharge.

These signs can have many benign causes. Identifying an abnormality does not necessarily mean that cancer is present.

However, it is important not to try to determine the cause yourself and to consult a healthcare professional.

Breast palpation and screening: what is the difference?

Self-palpation does not replace medical breast cancer screening.

In France, organised breast cancer screening for eligible women includes a mammogram combined with a clinical breast examination involving observation and palpation. For women aged 50 to 74 who have no symptoms or specific risk factors, screening is offered every two years.

Mammography and clinical examination are complementary: some abnormalities may be detectable by palpation without being visible on a mammogram, and vice versa.

Key takeaways

Breast palpation is not a tool for diagnosing cancer.

It can nevertheless help women become familiar with their breasts and identify unusual changes.

Observing, palpating, following recommended screening guidelines and consulting a healthcare professional when a change occurs are all important aspects of breast health.