Every woman's breast shape is different. Differences that are seen or felt are not always a sign of a breast disorder. Recognize the characteristics of normal breasts and those that need further examination by a doctor.
A normal breast consists of fatty tissue, connective tissue, milk-producing glands and ducts, as well as blood vessels, nerves and lymphatics. This organ is connected to the chest wall through the muscles in that area.
Breasts get nutrition from the vascular system. In addition, to ward off infection in the breast, there is a lymphatic system (lymphatic system) which carries cells to fight infection.
Milk or breast milk that forms in the mammary glands will collect in small spaces (lobules) in the breast that are connected by milk ducts. This milk is released from the nipple when the mother feeds the baby. The number and size of these mammary glands can vary as needed.
On the breast, there is a dark, blackish or brown area surrounding the nipple. This part is called the areola. Areola contains glands Montgomery which lubricates the nipples during breastfeeding.
Characteristic-CEnvy Normal Breasts
Sometimes, the characteristics of the breasts that vary greatly in these women are unsettling, especially because of concerns about whether or not their breasts are affected. In order not to be confused, know the following characteristics of normal breasts:
- bust sizeWomen often think that a large breast size is a sign of abnormal breasts. Though this difference is normal, especially at puberty. This can happen because one breast develops faster than the other.
- Nipple shape
Some women have normal breasts with nipples that tighten or harden when touched or when it's cold. Meanwhile, nipples in other women are not so. This is a normal thing.
In addition, the shape of the nipple can also be different, big or small, pointing forward or down, or looking different from one breast to another.
The shape of the nipple that goes in is nothing to worry about because it does not interfere with the breastfeeding process. Nipple size can also change, especially during pregnancy. The thing to watch out for is a change in the shape of the nipple, starting from the presence or absence of fluid other than breast milk that comes out, the appearance of pain, swelling or peeling skin.
- Nipple color
Nipples can change color depending on temperature, pregnancy, and age. So if one day you find the color of your nipples getting darker, this is quite normal.
- Hair around the nipples
Some women notice hair or fine hairs around the areola. Hair follicles are located around the nipple and this is normal. If you feel uncomfortable, you can cut or shave it like the hair on other parts of the body.
- Breasts feel swollenThere are times when the breasts become tender and swollen, such as after ovulation, when progesterone causes breast cells and blood vessels to dilate. Hormonal changes around menstruation can also cause breast pain in some women. However, immediately consult a doctor if the aches and pains do not subside immediately.
To detect possible disturbances in normal breasts early, check the breasts independently on a regular basis. Check with your doctor if there are changes in your breasts, such as the appearance of lumps, wrinkles, pain for which the cause is not clear, or the presence of fluid coming out of the nipples when you are not breastfeeding.