Early detection3 min read

Clinical breast examination

A clinical breast exam is a professional check performed by a doctor or nurse. It complements self-exam and is often part of routine screening.

During the exam, a clinician looks at both breasts and palpates them gently, along with the armpits, checking the same things you would at home — but with trained hands and eyes.

What happens during the exam

  • You undress from the waist up in private
  • The clinician inspects both breasts in several positions
  • They feel the whole breast, armpits and collarbone area
  • The exam takes about ten minutes and causes little discomfort

A clinical exam can reassure you about normal findings and spot subtle changes. It does not replace a mammogram, and your clinician may suggest imaging even when everything feels normal.

In brief

A check by a trained professional
Complements, but does not replace, a mammogram
A good time to ask your questions

What you can do

Ask for it during check-ups

Include it in your annual preventive visit.

Bring your concerns

Tell the clinician anything that has changed.

Keep learning

Breast self-examinationAwarenessMammographyAwarenessSigns and symptoms of breast cancerAwareness