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Spanish Translation

How to do a breast self-exam using an up-and-down pattern

Someone doing breast self-exam using up-and-down pattern.

To do this type of breast exam, check the entire breast area by using an up-and-down pattern. Start at one edge of the breast area and move your fingers up and down to the edges of your breast and across the entire breast area. As you move across the breast area, move your fingers in small, coin-sized circles using different levels of pressure.

Check both breasts.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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