You might think you know all about your breasts, or indeed that there isn't all that much to know. We just take our breasts for granted, and don't really think about them. But there's a lot to learn - these are some of the facts you should know about your breasts …
1. If You Find a Lump
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Get into the habit of checking your breasts every month, so that you learn what is normal for you and can pick up early on any lumps or changes. But it's important to realise that most lumps are not cancer, so don't panic if you do find one. Get to your doctor ASAP to check it out, but in the majority of cases the lump is benign.
2. Be Supportive!
A good bra is, of course, essential - especially if you have larger breasts. But did you know that smoking can actually damage the ligaments that support your breasts? Weight loss and hormonal changes can also cause sagging, so try to avoid drastic weight loss (better not to gain weight in the first place) - and don't even be tempted to take up smoking.
3. Baby on the Way!
You're probably aware that if you get pregnant, your breasts will grow as they prepare for feeding your baby. But this won't just happen later in the pregnancy; in fact, a woman can find that her breasts start expanding long before her belly does. One of the earliest signs of pregnancy can be that your breasts feel tender.
4. Nipple Hair
Are you embarrassed by having hairs around your nipples? Don't be. It's totally normal to have nipple hair, and there's no need to worry. Not every woman does, but those who have body hair are more likely to have nipple hair. The simplest way to get rid of them is to use tweezers, but you can also have laser treatment for a more permanent solution.
5. Size & Symmetry
Do you have unevenly-sized breasts? Like nipple hair, uneven breasts are not uncommon. It does make it a bit awkward finding bras that fit, but it's perfectly normal. You should get it checked out if there's a sudden change in the size of one of your breasts though. And you can't boost your bust size with exercise. Weight gain may make your breasts grow, but otherwise you'll have to look for a booster bra to give the illusion of bigger breasts.
6. Weight
Now, here's an odd statistic about breasts. Have you ever wondered how much they weigh? The average weight for each breasts is between one and two pounds. The largest natural breasts weigh a whopping 100lb - which is pretty much what I weigh … all of me! You've got to sympathise with the poor woman carrying those around!
7. Checking Your Breasts
When's the best time to examine your breasts? 3-5 days after the start of your period, when they won't be experiencing that premenstrual hormonal lumpiness. Check them when you're in different positions - lying down, sitting in a chair, and looking in a mirror.
Remember to always look after your breasts by wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra, especially if you are larger-breasted or do sports. And don't worry if your breasts are too small for your liking; the most important thing is that they're healthy, and you need to be comfortable in your own body. Have you ever been tempted to have breast enhancements, and why?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is breast self-examination important?
- Regular self-exams help you detect any unusual changes early, improving the chances of successful treatment.
- How often should I perform a breast self-exam?
- Aim to do it once a month, ideally a few days after your period ends when breasts are less tender.
- Can breastfeeding affect breast health?
- Yes, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of certain breast cancers and helps maintain breast tissue health.
- What are common signs of breast cancer to watch for?
- Look for lumps, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or unusual pain.
- Does diet impact breast health?
- A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats supports overall breast health.
- Are breast lumps always cancerous?
- No, many lumps are benign, like cysts or fibroadenomas, but always get them checked by a doctor.
- How does age affect breast cancer risk?
- Risk increases with age, so regular screenings become more important as you get older.
- Is wearing a bra related to breast health?
- There's no strong evidence that wearing a bra causes health issues, but ensure your bra fits well for comfort.
- What role does genetics play in breast cancer?
- Inherited mutations can increase risk, so know your family history and discuss screening options with your doctor.
- Can lifestyle choices reduce breast cancer risk?
- Yes, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking can lower risk.