A leading NHS doctor is urging women across the UK to adopt a simple but potentially life-saving habit: performing three key health checks at the start of every month.
The 'First of the Month' Health Routine
Dr Carys Sonnenberg, an NHS Women's Health GP and founder of the Rowena Health Menopause Clinic, shared the advice on her popular TikTok channel. She suggested that the first day of the month serves as an easy-to-remember reminder to conduct essential self-examinations.
While the ideal date for January 2026 has passed, Dr Sonnenberg's guidance remains timely. Anyone can start the routine this week and adopt the 'first of the month' strategy for the future to ensure these vital checks are never forgotten.
What Are the Three Essential Checks?
In her social media video, Dr Sonnenberg outlined the three areas women should examine monthly. "It's the first of the month, so it's a really good day to do your chest check, to do your vulva check, and also to examine any moles that you have on your body, not forgetting your head," she told viewers.
She emphasised that the core principle is knowing what is normal for your own body, making it easier to spot any unusual changes promptly. For the chest examination, she directed people to the resources provided by the breast cancer awareness charity, CoppaFeel!
How to Check and What to Look For
CoppaFeel! champions monthly checks to help everyone become familiar with their own breasts, pecs, or chest. The charity provides clear online guides on how to perform a proper examination and what potential warning signs to be aware of.
Dr Sonnenberg advised that for a full skin check, you will likely need a mirror and perhaps help from a partner to examine your back and scalp. The key signs of breast cancer highlighted by CoppaFeel! include:
- Skin changes like puckering or dimpling.
- An unusual lump or swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone.
- New lumps or areas of thickening.
- Nipple discharge, crusting, a rash, or a nipple turning inwards.
- A sudden change in breast size or shape.
- Constant, unusual pain in the breast or armpit.
The charity stresses that while these symptoms may have benign causes, it is crucial to contact your GP if you notice any of them. Getting into a regular checking habit makes it easier to detect changes early, when treatment is often more effective.
Dr Sonnenberg, who is also a menopause specialist, concluded her message by reinforcing the importance of this simple monthly routine for long-term health and peace of mind.
