What is the best way to do a breast self-exam? I always feel like I have lumps, but the doctor says what I am feeling are not "bad" lumps. It makes me wonder if I'm just doing the exam the wrong way.

To appropriate Nike's slogan, the most important thing is to "just do it." The entire breast must be examined, from collarbone to ribcage, from breastbone to an imaginary line running from the middle of the armpit; the "tail" of breast tissue that extends toward the armpit should also be examined.

First, look at your breasts in a mirror. They may not be exactly the same size and shape, but they should be similar. Look to see if one or both nipples seems drawn inward (if they've always been "innies," that's okay, but if this is something new, let your doctor know). Also look for puckering of the skin or discoloration. Raise both arms up to make sure the breasts are rising symmetrically. Discuss self-breast exams with your physician. Many offices have models that you can practice on to learn the difference between normal breast tissue and lumps.

Next, actually feel the breasts. This part of the exam can be done lying on a bed or standing in the shower. Put one arm above your head, and use the pads of two or three fingers to examine one breast. The pressure you apply needs to be medium -- not so hard that it hurts, but not so light that it tickles. You can go in a spiral, starting at the outside of your breast and working in smaller and smaller circles to the nipple, or you can go in lines; just make sure your fingers examine the entire breast. Then, do the same thing on the other side.

Most of us have somewhat lumpy breasts; as I tell my patients, "They're not like Jell-O." There is texture to the breasts, and the most important thing for you to look for is whether there is something that feels out of the ordinary for you. That is why it is so important to check your breasts at the same point in your cycle every month. Breasts are lumpier and more tender right before the period, so the best time to do self-exams is right after your period ends. If you are in menopause, then use the calendar as a reminder -- do your breast exam the first of every month.