How Your Breasts Naturally Change Throughout Your Life

Like the skin, a woman’s breast goes through natural changes throughout her life. The changes may be subtle, but they occur. The alterations could range from appearance to size and from shape to texture. Sometimes, the changes are a result of pregnancy, weight gain, or a debilitating illness.

This is why women should know what is going on with their breasts at each stage of their lives. If you’re not familiar with the different stages that your breasts go through, read on so you can learn what you can expect as each year passes by.

During Your 20s

As you cross the teenage stage, your body will start to settle into your adult weight. Your metabolism may drop, so the size of your breast changes as you add or drop some weight.

Pregnancy may happen within this decade, and will enlarge your breasts to prepare for lactation. Pregnancy can also change the color of your areolas and the size of your nipples. After pregnancy and lactation, your breasts may return to their pre-baby state. It may be unlikely, however, especially after multiple pregnancies.

You may also feel some lumps and bumps in your breasts, which are due to fibrocystic changes and are common for women in their 20s. These common lumps are often normal. Regardless, you can check with your doctor if you notice lumps, especially the ones that aren’t painful, as they are usually associated with cancer.

During Your 30s

If you have multiple pregnancies in your 20s, your breasts’ skin may start to stretch. In most cases, extended skin leads to stretch marks and ptosis or drooping breasts. Ptosis can still occur even in the absence of pregnancy as you deal with weight changes in your 30s.

During Your 40s

Once you reach this period, your body will start to transition to the menopausal stage. As the estrogen production in your ovaries decreases, your breasts will go through a stage called involution, in which fat will replace the breast tissues and make them feel soft.

You may feel lumps in your breasts, but they’re mostly soft. If the lumps are firm, consider them a red flag and should be evaluated immediately.

It’s normal to see changes in your breasts. However, it’s difficult to determine whether the changes are normal or due to a disease. That’s why it’s always best to do a self-breast exam so you can notice differences that may be worth a visit to the doctor.

If you’re unhappy with your breast shape and size at this stage in your life, you have the option to have a breast enhancement surgery. Contact Dr. Mussat today if want to learn about the procedures that can enhance your breasts.