All shapes and sizes
Women’s breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Females develop mammary glands during puberty and their primary function is to produce milk for breastfeeding. Breasts are made of glandular tissue, fatty tissue, connective tissue, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels.
During menopause the reduction of hormones can lead to a decrease in size and volume of the breast tissue. With age, there is also a decrease in collagen and skin elasticity, that may affect firmness and positioning of breasts. As this process is so varied, and may factors contribute throughout one’s life, breasts come in all shapes and sizes.
Following menopause, it’s important to have regular screenings as postmenopausal women may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. We’ve listed some common breast cancer screenings, so you have an idea of what to expect:
- Clinical Breast Examination: A physical examination performed by a healthcare professional. Doctors use firm pressure to feel for lumps in the breast tissue.
- Mammography: A screening tool that uses X-rays to detect abnormalities or changes. Each breast is pressed between two x-ray plates which spread the breast tissue out to get a clear image.
- Breast Ultrasound: A screening tool that uses X-rays to detect abnormalities or changes. Each breast is pressed between two x-ray plates which spread the breast tissue out to get a clear image.
- Breast MRI: A screening tool that uses X-rays to detect abnormalities or changes. Each breast is pressed between two x-ray plates which spread the breast tissue out to get a clear image.
We try to make sure it’s accurate and up to date, however we can’t guarantee that it will always apply to you. Please seek your own medical advice from your doctor or health professional if you have any concerns.