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A female's breasts begin to grow around age of 10-12 and
they continue to grow till she is about 16-18 years of age. (Click here to see breasts in
different stages of development both the front and side views)
Since breast development is dependent on hormonal levels,
fluctuations in hormones can affect breasts.
- Hormonal fluctuations before menstruation can cause the
breast to swell and become painful or lumpy. After menstruation the swelling and the lumps
may disappear.
- When a woman becomes pregnant, ducts and glands in her
breasts enlarge. To support these enlarged glands, there is even increase in the fatty
tissue leading to increase in size.
- Once the baby is born, hormones in the mother's blood
start the milk production (lactation). Baby's sucking also stimulates milk production.
Male breast do not develop likewise as the female pattern
of hormones is not present in males.
Selection of the right bra for yourself/ your daughter
CHANGES WITH THE AGE
Development of a women’s breast
begins during puberty.
The preadolescent breast consists of a
small elevated nipple with no elevation of underlying breast tissue.
Around 11 yr of age (b/w 8 and 13)
secondary sex characteristics appear and breast buds appear, and further enlargement of
breast and areolae follows. Click here for the five stages of breast development.
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