Are Your Breasts Normal?

My Weekly’s favourite GP from TV and radio writes for you

- Dr Sarah Jarvis

Everyone knows a new lump in the breast needs urgent attention but that’s not the only sign of breast cancer. What’s more, many women have naturally lumpy breasts, so it’s important to know what’s normal for you and get into the habit of checking your breasts regularly. You’re the best person to spot a change.

Check your breasts in the bathroom mirror with your arms down, with your hands firmly on your hips, and with arms above your head. Look for areas where the skin is puckered, persistent eczema on a nipple, or areas of skin that look dimpled, like orange peel. See your doctor if you find any of these.

Most women naturally have one breast slightly bigger than the other, and your breasts get more droopy after the menopause, but a change in shape or size of one breast needs examining by a doctor.