Have You Checked Your Breasts Recently?

Why it's so important to perform a breast check – and how you can do it at home.

To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, THE ICONIC has partnered with the McGrath Foundation to launch a bespoke McGrath Pink Edit, encouraging Australians to get behind the transformative power of pink.

With more than 20,000 people expected to face a breast cancer diagnosis this year, we sat down with McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Elaine Arnold, to understand how to stay breast aware and why everyone should check their breasts regularly.

THE ICONIC: Can you talk me through the 'Look, Feel, Learn' steps to being breast aware?

Elaine: It’s important to know that no two breasts are the same, so you have to learn to know your own breasts.

Kristy Wales, 28, and her McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Elaine Arnold.

I suggest becoming familiar with your breasts and getting into a routine of checking your breasts each month on a day that is easily remembered. Some people find doing this after showering in front of a mirror is helpful.

LOOK at the shape and appearance of your breasts and nipples in the mirror with your hands by your sides. Raise your arms above your head and have another look.
FEEL all of your breasts and nipples, looking for anything that isn’t normal for you. Feel from your collarbone to below the bra-line, and under your armpit too.
LEARN what’s normal for you! Breasts come in all different shapes and sizes, so get to know your normal. See your doctor if you notice any changes.

THE ICONIC: What advice do you have for individuals who may not be aware of how to perform a breast self-exam?

Elaine: There isn’t a right or wrong way to perform a breast exam so long as you check regularly. You’re not going to know what you’re feeling but you’re going to know if something is different from before, which may be an indication of breast cancer. There’s lots of great resources and videos online – for example you can learn more about the “Look, Feel, Learn” steps here.

THE ICONIC: How often should you do a breast check?

Elaine: You should check your breasts every month, around the same time – I usually recommend after your period to account for any hormonal changes, and as regularly as possible once you reach menopause. And for those who are eligible for the national BreastScreen program, you should undergo your regular screening as well. Women aged 40-74 are eligible, with reminder letters sent out from age 50. If breast cancer runs in your family, it would be worth getting your breasts checked by a doctor every year.

THE ICONIC: When should you go to your doctor?

Elaine: If you think something is unusual and needs investigation, go to your doctor. Don’t wait or be scared – it’s always best to seek medical advice, especially considering survival rates are improved when breast cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages.

Celebrity stylist Donny Galella with Leanne Moss, Kristy Wales and Amanda Barrass who have been supported by McGrath Breast Care Nurses throughout their breast cancer experiences.

Your next outfit can make a difference to the lives of people experiencing breast cancer. For every purchase from our exclusive McGrath Pink Edit this October, THE ICONIC will donate 10% of profits to the McGrath Foundation – supporting them on their mission to ensure that nobody goes through breast cancer without the care of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse.

Shop The Pink Edit Now