Normal breast structure

The breast is the key gland unique to breastfeeding. Only through the baby's sucking can the breast carry out physiological functions and secrete milk.

1. Breast growth and development

The breasts are close to the sebaceous glands and come from the ectoderm. The breasts begin to develop in the early stages of the embryonic stage. There can be 6 to 8 pairs of mammary gland rudiments in the embryonic stage. During the development stage, only a pair of mammary gland rudiments located between the fifth rib and the midclavicular line can survive and develop, while the other mammary gland rudiments decline over time from March.

During the infant stage, the mammary glands are basically in a "dormant" state. Most women begin to develop their breasts between the ages of 9 and 14. Some women begin to develop their breasts at the age of 8, but some women begin to develop their breasts after the age of 16 or even later.

Friendly reminder from the editor: Breast growth and development is divided into 5 stages, and it takes 3 to 5 years for the breasts to grow and develop fully.

The first stage: that is, the early stage of development, the breasts have not yet begun to grow, only a small nipple is slightly protruding.

The second stage: also called the bud stage or breast growth stage, the breasts and nipples protrude like small hills, and the nipples (the darker area around the nipples) begin to expand!

Stage 3: The breasts and nipples expand further, the areola gradually darkens in color, and the breasts and nipples are on the same elevated surface.

Stage IV: The breasts, nipples and papillae are more enlarged, and the nipples and papillae protrude from the breasts.

Stage 5: Also called growth and development maturity, the breasts are larger and have a smooth, dome-shaped appearance, and the nipple and breast are restored to the same dome surface.

Generally speaking, the size of breast development is related to genetic factors. Early, mid-late breast development does not affect the speed of future growth and development, nor does it affect the size and appearance of breasts in adulthood. Finally, the editor reminds female friends: Therefore, as long as the growth and development of male reproductive organs and menstruation are normal, it will not affect the breastfeeding function of adults. Breast size is not proportional to milk production!