The five steps to doing a breast self-exam Breast self-examination, or frequently checking your breasts on your own, can be a valuable tool for detecting breast cancer early, when it is more likely to be effectively treated. While no one test will identify all breast cancers early. In this article, I'll tell you how to do a breast self-exam in the five simple steps: Step 1 Stand in front of the mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips, staring at your breasts. Here are some things to watch for: Breasts that...