Females develop breasts as an important part of their reproduction system. Development actually begins in the fetal stages, and continues throughout a female's lifetime. For young girls, outward breast development is an important, emotional time. Final changes occur at menopause, signifying the end of the reproductive cycle.
Fetal Stage
Around the 6th week of development, the fetus begins to show internal signs and symptoms of a milk line. This thickening produces a nipple by time of birth.
Puberty
The first outwardly noticeable symptoms of breast development happen during puberty. One of the first signs will be pubic and armpit hair. Fat begins to accumulate and the duct system begins to swell, causing breasts to enlarge. The menstrual cycle also begins around the time of breast development.
Menstrual Changes
Breasts undergo cyclical changes throughout normal menstruation. Nearing ovulation, breasts may show symptoms of swelling and hardening, as they prepare for impending pregnancy. If pregnancy fails to occur, signs fade until the following cycle.
Pregnancy
Signs of breast change are one of the earliest pregnancy symptoms. Breasts may become tender and lumpy. You may also notice a darkening of the areolas and soreness of the nipples.
Menopause
When a woman reaches middle age, breasts show outward signs of their final change. Having fulfilled their reproductive duties, milk ducts begin to shrink, showing outward symptoms of breasts sinking and sagging.
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