By Blua | Digital health by Bupa
6 minute read
Published 18 March 2026
From self-exams to mammograms, there are different ways to check your breasts for signs of breast cancer.
Your age and life stage, as well as physical symptoms, can tell you when to get a breast check and what kind is most appropriate.
Learn more here about how best to look after your breast health.
Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australian women, with 20,000 diagnoses made in 2025 alone.1
The 5 year relative survival rate for breast cancer in Australia is over 90%.2 This is partly due to a national BreastScreen program that has meant more women are being regularly screened. Early detection of the disease leads to swift treatment and better outcomes for patients.
It is important to perform self-exams regularly. Knowing what is normal for your breasts will make it easier to notice if anything changes.
While normal changes in breast tissue happen during your monthly cycle, with pregnancy and as we age, other signs can indicate a health issue.
Knowing what these are can help keep you healthy.
Women can start checking their own breasts each month from any age. Because hormonal shifts during your period can cause changes in how your breasts look and feel, it’s best to wait a few days after your period ends to do a self-exam.
From the age of 40, Australian women can get a free screening mammogram every 2 years through the national BreastScreen program. Women aged 50-74 will receive a letter in the mail asking them to attend. There are more than 750 locations nationwide.
It’s important to know that you do not have to wait until you are 40 to request a mammogram. If you have any signs or symptoms talk to your GP who can refer you for a medical breast check if appropriate.
There are some physical signs that you need a professional breast check.3
Signs you can look for include:
Signs you can feel for include:
If you have any of the symptoms above, make an appointment with your GP immediately. This does not mean you have breast cancer, but it’s essential to have your symptoms properly investigated.
Your GP may ask to perform a clinical breast exam in the appointment. This will involve an examination of your breasts. If you prefer a male or female doctor, request this when you make the appointment. A nurse may also be present during the examination.
Your doctor may refer you for a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound. These tests can detect abnormalities in the breast tissue.
Our health and wellbeing information is regularly reviewed and maintained by a team of healthcare experts, to ensure its relevancy and accuracy. Everyone's health journey is unique and health outcomes vary from person to person.
This content is not a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare, or other professional advice. If you have concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.
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1 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2025). Cancer data in Australia. Australian Government.
2 Breast Cancer Network Australia. (2025). Breast cancer statistics in Australia.
3 BreastScreen NSW. (2026). Signs and symptoms of breast cancer. NSW Government.
