For most women, the size and shape of their breasts are a source of great pride and satisfaction. The female body goes through an incredible array of changes over the years, and the subsequent effects of these changes are a natural and understandable part of life.
As a woman ages, her breasts will undergo many different changes. The degree and direction of these changes are influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. In addition to these factors, permanent changes can also be caused by a standard aging process, hormonal shifts, and the effects of gravity if the body’s collagen and elastin production decreases.
Over time, breast structures can naturally soften and their skin stretches, leading to sagging breasts. The visibility of veins may become more prominent, and size and shape can be affected as well. Fat deposits throughout the breasts may become larger, and there may also be some loss of firmness. Because of heredity, some women will develop larger breasts over time, while others will experience a decrease in size.
Weight Changes
Weight fluctuations can affect breast size. Because breast tissue itself is not made of fat, fluctuations in overall body weight might not necessarily affect breast size; however, in some women, the additional fat that may be stored within the breasts can make them appear larger when the rest of the body undergoes changes. Conversely, when bodyweight is lost, the size of breasts might also decrease.
In order to measure an actual change in breast cup size, a significant loss of 15-20 pounds may be necessary for most women. This is because a great deal of breast volume actually comes from breast glandular tissue and other non-fatty structures. If significant amounts of weight are lost, these breast structures can atrophy (shrink) which may lead to a decrease in breast firmness.
Pregnancy Changes
The impact of pregnancy on breast structures can be substantial. It is estimated that up to 75% of women report having changes in breast size after pregnancy. Beginning with the first trimester of pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone result in an increase in breast ductal size as well as the development of additional glandular tissue. At this stage of the pregnancy, breasts might begin to look fuller and weigh more because of the added weight from the surrounding glandular structures.
The second trimester marks the start of nipple growth that continues until breast milk becomes produced. As the breasts fill up with milk, they increase in size and might feel heavier or fuller. By the time a baby is born, breasts will be enlarged compared to their pre-pregnancy state. After childbirth, decreases in both estrogen and prolactin hormone levels can result in the production of less milk and a reduction in the content of fill within the breasts. It is estimated that breast size and weight will return to their pre-pregnancy size within several months of stopping nursing.
Activities in an Impact on Breast Shape
Because of the limited support of the Cooper’s ligaments and surrounding breast tissues, high-impact activities, such as jumping, running, aerobics and kickboxing, can result in a temporary increase in breast size. As a result, women participating in these types of activities might need sports bras that provide additional levels of support and padding. In addition, it is estimated that as many as 90% of participating women report that high-impact exercise leads to a reduction in breast firmness. Unfortunately, the device results in breast sagging due to the constant movement and stretching of the Cooper’s ligaments and surrounding breast tissues.
Conclusion
The breasts usually change shape and size with age as well as after certain life events, such as pregnancy. Weight gain and weight loss, as well as certain activities, can also have an impact on breast size and shape. Women should be aware of these changes and take steps to ensure proper support is provided.
