Know the Characteristics of Normal Breasts

Each woman's breast shape is different. Differences that look or feel are not always a sign of interference with the breast. Recognize the characteristics of normal breasts and which need to be examined further by a doctor. Normal breast consists of fat tissue, connective tissue, milk producing glands and channels, as well as blood vessels, nerves and lymphatic channels. This organ is connected to the chest wall through the muscles in the area. Breasts get nutrition from the blood vessel system. In addition, to ward off infections in the breast, there is a lymphatic flow system (lymphatic system) that carries cells to fight infection. Milk or liquid milk that forms in the milk glands will collect in small spaces (lobules) in the breast that are connected by milk ducts. This milk is removed from the nipple when the mother is breastfeeding the baby. The number and size of these mammary glands can change as needed. In the breast, there is a dark black or brown area surrounding the nipple. This part is called the areola. The areola contains the Montgomery gland which lubricates the nipples during the breastfeeding process.

Characteristics of Normal Breasts

Sometimes, the very varied characteristics of the breasts in these women cause anxiety, mainly due to concerns whether or not her breasts are disturbed. So as not to be confused, know the characteristics of normal breasts below:

• Breast size

Women often think that the size of the large breast next door is a sign of abnormal breast. Though this difference is normal, especially in 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 is cold. Meanwhile, the nipples of other women do not. This is normal. In addition, the shape of the nipple can also vary, large or small, pointing forward or downward, or looks different from one breast to another. The shape of the nipple that goes inside does not need to worry because it does not interfere with the process of breastfeeding. Nipple size can also change especially during pregnancy. Things to watch out for are changes in the shape of the nipple, starting from the presence or absence of fluid other than 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 the nipples getting darker, this is quite normal.

• Hair around the nipple

Some women find hair or fine hairs around the aerola. Hair follicles are indeed around the nipple and this is normal. If you feel uncomfortable, you can cut or shave it like the hair on other body parts.

• The breast feels swollen

There are times when the breast becomes painful and swollen like after ovulation, when progesterone causes breast cells and blood vessels to dilate. Hormonal changes around the menstrual period can also cause breast pain in some women. However, consult a doctor immediately if the aches and pains do not subside immediately.

To detect the possibility of disruption in normal breasts early, check the breasts independently regularly. Check with your doctor if there are changes in the breast, such as the appearance of a lump, wrinkles, pain that is not clear the cause, or the discharge from the nipple when not breastfeeding.