The American Cancer Society (ACS) is among those that recommend breast self-exams, but only as part of the three-step process to screen for breast cancer. The three steps include:

• Breast self-examination (BSE)
• Clinical breast examination  (CBE)
• Mammography

Many health experts disagree about the potential benefits and possible risks of performing monthly breast self–examinations (BSEs). Several large clinical studies have reached conflicting conclusions regarding the value of BSEs. Advocates believe that it encourages women to become more familiar with their bodies and thus be more apt to notice changes. Others point to the sharp increase in unnecessary biopsies and the possible anxiety that comes with finding a lump. However, it is unlikely an unecessary biopsy would be done. A biopsy is typically ordered only if there is a concern by a physicianand unnecessary biopsies are not common.

Not all screening tests are helpful and BSEs come with certain risks, including increased anxiety and unnecessary surgeries. According to the ACS, more than 75 percent of breast biopsies are benign. Most experts believe that the lumps that women detect during their BSEs are benign lumps that otherwise would not be biopsied. Health experts also worry that some women will mistakenly substitute monthly BSEs for regular screening mammography and clinical breast exams by a qualified physician or healthcare professional.

The ACS, along with other leading health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state that while breast self-examinations play a small role in finding breast cancer, studies have shown that BSEs alone do not lower a woman’s risk of dying from the disease. In the end, whether or not a woman chooses to perform monthly BSEs, the most important goal is to report any changes in her breasts to a physician.