Page 43 - (DK) Help Your Kids with Growing Up: A No-Nonsense Guide to Puberty and Adolescence

BREAST S 41

Breast development
The breast bud, a small, firm bump that appears under the
nipple and surrounding areola, is one of the first signs of
puberty. It usually appears between the ages of 9 and 10 due to
an increase in the body’s level of oestrogen, one of the female
sex hormones. At first, breast buds might feel tender, or sore, but
this should pass.
Over time, as glandular tissue and fatty tissue develop,
the breasts grow bigger and rounder. The areola darkens and △ Stages of growth
becomes enlarged. The nipples may start to protrude outwards Breast development is triggered by the female
from the breast. sex hormone oestrogen.

Common concerns Self-checks
Teens may sometimes worry about their breasts and how they Girls and women should check their breasts regularly
look. Here are the most common concerns: and get to know how they feel at different times in their
menstrual cycle. This will allow them to notice any changes
sooner. If there are any changes or if there is pain or
Developing early Asymmetrical discharge, it’s best to see a doctor as quickly as possible.
or late breasts
Everyone develops at Most of the time breasts
different times. How fast will gradually become
breasts grow is not related more even, but no natural 1. Stand in front of a mirror and
to what they will breasts are completely look at both breasts for any changes
eventually look like. symmetrical. in shape, size, or asymmetry.

Tenderness Inverted nipples
2. Clasp hands behind head and
Some teens experience Some teens find their press hands forward to tense the
breast tenderness in the nipples go into the muscles. Check for changes in the
days leading up to a breast. They may pop skin or nipple, and for discharge.
period, but this should out eventually but some
end with the period. never do. This is nothing
to worry about.
3. Press hands firmly on hips,
bow slightly forward. Look for
any visible changes.
Hairy nipples Stretch marks

Hair around the nipples Breast tissue may grow
is completely normal. faster than the skin on the
Plucking the hair is fine surface. This can cause fine 4. Lie down with one arm above the
if a person doesn’t like lines, called stretch marks, head. Press small circles all around
the way it looks. to appear, but they will the flesh of each breast, including
fade over time. the nipple and armpit. Feel for any
changes in the breast tissue.

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