What Every Girl Should Know About Breast Development

A lot of teenage girls are worried about their breast development. They have many questions as to how breasts grow and how to take care of them. The growth or development of breasts starts right from infancy though at this stage there is no much distinction between the breasts of males and females. At birth there is a milk line which is a termination of the mild ducts present in both male as well as female babies with a difference being that as the baby grows this milk line is closed in males and continues to develop in females. Between the period from infancy to puberty there is very little or no development of the breasts. However once puberty sets in rapid development of the breast tissue starts and areola, nipples and milk ducts start developing. The onset of puberty varies in different women. In some it maybe as early as 8 years and in some it may be delayed up to 16 yrs. During this period the increase in breast size can be visible from the outside.

There are various stages in breast development occurring over a span of time. The stages of breast development as recorded are:

Breast Growth Stage 1: from 0 to 8 years

This is the first stage usually the pre adolescent stage where the breasts are usually flat and the nipples are slightly raised but there is no development. Both males and females breasts are similar in this stage.

Breast Growth Stage 2: from 8 to 14 years

This is called the breast bud stage during which buds appear and develop. There are signs of raised nipples as well. During this stage the areola also enlarges and darkens. This is the stage usually prior to adolescence.

Breast Growth Stage 3: from 9 to 15 years

During this stage there is development of the milk ducts and the accumulation of fat in the breast tissue. This is the stage where the breasts become fuller and rounder. Though there is no visible change in the breasts.

Breast Growth Stage 4: from 10 to 16 years

During this stage the nipples and the areola come into prominence and the milk ducts systems are fully developed. This stage can be painful for some girls due to the stretching of the skin. During this stage of breast development it is very essential to give adequate support to the breasts with the help of a good bra.

Breast Growth Stage 5: from 12 to 19 years

In this stage of breast development the breasts are fully rounded and the nipples are raised. There is complete development of ducts and the breast tissue

Breast development is only complete after child birth. During pregnancy there is complete development of the milk ducts due to the hormone release. The breasts become fuller and rounder in this stage. It is said that breast development is only complete only when a women bears a child.

It is necessary to give importance to breast health. Always drink plenty of water it plays a very important role in having healthy breasts. Choose the right size bra for yourself that provides adequate support. Do not choose a bra that is too tight. Never wear your bra for more than 12 hours and always remember to take off your bra while you sleep, this reduces the risk of you getting breast cancer. Give your breasts regular massages it improves the blood circulation in the breasts. Its very important to ensure adequate health for your breasts to develop well.