I get annual mammograms but don't do a monthly exam as my breasts are lumpy . would an ultrasound be useful? should i be checking them monthly?

Yes: Breast self exams are useful, especially with lumpy breasts. Ultrasound may demonstrate cysts which may help rule out a solid mass.

Yes and no: I am glad you are getting your annual mammography. That's the best screening tool available at the present time. Breast self examination on a monthly basis is generally recommended but there are conflicting reports if it can lower the mortality rate from breast cancer. However there are many women who have presented with breast cancer that they have discovered by self exams. Ultrasound is very helpful to assess breast lumps, abnormal shadows on a mommogram or generally lumpy breasts. A clinical breast exam also needs to be done annually (or more frequently if needed) even if your mammogram is reported normal.