A woman’s breasts are a symbol of her femininity. That’s why women are conscious about the size and shape of their breasts. Taking good care of the breasts and having it checked by a doctor during routine examinations are part of maintaining a woman’s health.
During your early teens, your growing breasts may make you feel uncomfortable. Breast changes are normal as you start growing up. Be aware of these changes and instead of being uncomfortable about it, you can do something about these changes to make you feel better.
Shopping for your First Bra
It’s okay to feel discomfort as your breasts start to grow. They can be a little painful or tender when you start jumping or running a lot. Girls may start wearing bras when their breasts begin to bud. During this time, you can ask your mom or sister to help you get a good starter bra.
- Fits you to a tee! Ask the help of a salesperson for your right measurements. Measurements may come in numbers followed by a letter. The letter is your cup size or breast size while the numbers tell you how wide your back is. Try the bras and choose those which feel right and comfortable to you. After all, you are still growing.
- Feels good. Choose a bra made of material that is gentle on your skin. If it feels a little scratchy then no need to get it even if it fits well. When you start sweating, that scratchy material can irritate your skin.
- Avoid too much wire. Wires may provide discomfort and some bras may have wires that may press too much on the skin. Being comfortable with your bra is a must. Choose wireless bras if you are the sporty or athletic type. Wires may provide added support. With smaller cup sizes, a wireless bra may be more comfortable.
- Get good straps. A wider bra strap will provide better support. The choice depends on you. A thinner strap with nice details like ribbons or lace may be attractive too. If you are into sports, get a wider strap that fits you well. Whatever feels comfortable to you will make a good choice.
Perk them up: Make those breasts look good!
Who wants large breasts? Your breasts are made to be just right for your body. So take care of them and keep them firm. Perk those breasts up by doing some very simple exercises:
Do your pushups from your arms to your knees. Start with about 8 to 12 per day. You can repeat this 2 to 3 times. Just take a 15-second rest in between the repetitions.
Get those dumbbells that have been under your bed for months. Start with 2 or 3 pounds if this is your first time. Don’t overdo this by using heavier ones. You can increase the weights after having done this for a while.
Holding the dumbbells, lie flat on your back. Raise your arms straight out from your shoulders and lift the weights. Look at the ceiling straight up. Return to starting position and do about 12 counts. Repeat this set 2 or 3 times a day. If you do not have a dumbbell, you can fill a 500ml plastic bottle with water and use this instead. You can also start moving about your house fixing those large cartons in your closets. Be creative!
Self Breast Examination
When you reach your 20’s you may begin to be aware of some growths or lumps in your breasts. Not all lumps in the breast indicate breast cancer but it is best to know your breasts well and this may be done through Self Breast Examination or SBE. Do SBE a week or so after your period. You may do this while lying on your back or in the shower. Just relax and be comfortable while doing this. You can do this often especially if you have family members with breast cancer.
- Using the outer pads of your three middle fingers and with a little bit of pressure, feel one breast using small circular motions starting from your nipple outward. Add a little more pressure from time to time and feel for any lumps or pain. You can also do this in an up and down motion. Make sure that you cover all areas of the breast.
- With your three middle fingers, also feel for those areas near your collarbone and chest bone. Repeat this examination on your other breast. Try to feel your armpits too and note for any lumps or bumps in the area.
- With your thumb and middle finger, pinch your nipple and check for any changes in the color of the skin or discharge.
By learning to examine your breasts, you are beginning to take responsibility for your body. With this in mind, it is a good feeling to take charge of your health. If you see any changes in your breasts, there is no need to panic. As early as possible, set an appointment with your doctor for an examination.
Breasts Q&A
Why do breasts become tender when one’s period gets closer?
Although it can be very uncomfortable, it’s not something you need to worry about. You may feel a little fullness in your breasts before your period. During this time, even a gentle touch of your breasts can make you jump a little. The pain is due to the swelling of breast tissue caused by high levels of estrogen in the body. Apply warm compress over the area. You can place a warm towel over your breasts and let this stay until the pain subsides. Drink less water during this time since your body retains water when estrogen levels are high. This excess water can make your breasts feel fuller. You may take pain relievers if the pain gets really bad. Move your arms and do some push ups to maintain good blood flow in the area.
Can I make my breasts grow bigger?
Facing a mirror, note that your two breasts are not exactly alike. One breast may be slightly larger than the other. Your nipples may differ slightly too. This is normal. Take note of these differences and check your breasts from time to time. Look out for any changes.
There is no such thing as perfectly shaped or sized breasts. The size of your breasts may change due to weight loss or weight gain. During pregnancy, your breasts will start producing milk and will grow larger. Exercising can also improve how your breasts look by increasing the size of the muscles beneath your breasts. Some women may have some surgery to make their breasts look bigger. As you grow older, you may think that larger breasts may make you feel better or even look better. This may be true but looking good is really about learning to accept your body and having people accept you as you are… breasts and all!
Does wearing a bra contribute to breast cancer?
This is not proven to be true. Breast cancer is caused by a certain combination of genes as well as other factors like being on the heavy side and smoking. Women who have moms, sisters or aunts with breast cancer may need to see a doctor early on for breast examinations. So it’s okay to wear your bras. Bras help support your breasts and by doing so can help you achieve good posture.
