What happens when I start developing breasts? I’m afraid to talk about it with people.
I have a clear memory as an 11 year-old girl of pulling the ‘C’ Encylopedia Britannica off the shelf, sneaking it into my room and reading about cancer. I was certain that I had cancer because my no longer pancake-flat nipples had become very sore and tender, changing shape and sensation almost overnight.
Over the years, I’ve shared this story with other women my age. Many of them have similar tales. Lucky reader! We are here to tell you how normal that feeling really is.
Once hormones, start to increase, particularly estrogen, your nipples will show sings of change, darkening and getting bigger. There is often feeling of soreness and sometimes pain, but it’s passes. You may also notice that your breasts are uneven. This is typical, since most girls and women don’t have symmetrical breasts. Once your period starts, you may have greater breast sensitivity cyclically, usually a day or two prior to the start of your flow.
Sometimes breasts can be incredibly useful, like if you decide you want to nurse after giving birth. They can also be fun to dress, along with the rest of your fine form. If you decide to wear a bra, be sure it’s not too tight fitting so the tissue surrounding your breasts has good healthy circulation. It’s also a good idea to become familiar with the shape and feel of your breasts, especially as they grow and change, which happens a lot in those first few years of development. Performing regular breast exams on yourself is an important part of keeping healthy. This is easy enough to do in the shower, or when you’re getting dressed. If you detect a change, bring it to the attention of your health care provider.
Any other questions about breasts, or anything else that’s on your mind? No need to sneak off in silence. There are probably girls reading this wondering the very same thing. So please ask!
Have a question for one of our experts? Email support@helloflo.com.
Cover image courtesy of Shutterstock.
comments