Breastfeeding? Here’s how to check your breasts!

Breast self-exams can help spot a breastfeeding issue as much as it can help spot breast cancer. 

Should you self-examine when breastfeeding?

Yes!

• Performing breast self-exams at home reduces the risk of dying from breast cancer
• Breastfeeding reduces your lifetime risk of breast cancer BUT you can still get breast cancer even if you’re breastfeeding

Does a lump mean I have cancer?

No

• Lumps in your breast aren’t always cancer especially when breastfeeding, when other more common issues may be the cause
• BUT always see your doctor if you notice a breast lump!

What could a lump otherwise be?

• Engorgement (breast full of milk) – relieved by regular feeds or pumping
• Plugged milk duct – massage lump gently during feeding
• Infection (mastitis) or abscess – see your doctor who may offer antibiotics
• Benign cyst – may disappear itself

Is a lump all I have to look out for?

No

• Breast cancer can also present with nipple changes (inversion, eczema-like rash), dimpling or puckering of skin
• Breastfeeding can also cause these changes (due to hormones, latching technique) – see your doctor if worried

It’s always best to examine your breasts during and after a feed so you can spot anything new.

During a feed:

• Use your free hand to gently examine your breast.
• Any tender spots? Is one area warmer than the rest of your skin?

After a feed:

• Grab a towel! (Milk may make it messy)
• Have a look in the mirror for any changes in your breasts – place your hands behind your head and then on your waist
• Get comfortable (lying or standing) and pop one hand behind your head
• With the other hand, feel all around your breast in a circular motion, feel for any lumps in your armpit, feel for any changes on the nipple

See a doctor if you notice anything unusual!