Breast growth is a natural occurrence in every woman’s life, and biological growth occurs for almost the majority of a woman’s life. The earliest development in a woman’s breast starts from before she is born, and it often continues until she reaches menopause. However, there are stages to this growth, and the timing of these stages may differ for each woman, as well as breast growth pains.
Factors That Affect Breast Growth
There are several factors that affect breast growth, and these factors are responsible for the varying breast sizes in ladies. Some of them include:
- Family history
- Weight
- Work-out routine
- Birth control
- Period
- Pregnancy
- Age
It is vital to pay attention to the rate at which your breasts grow to detect if there is a reason for concern.
The breast starts to grow at the ages of 8 to 13. At this stage, it is normal for girls to become curious or have a lot of questions. For some, these new changes in their body may feel completely odd, but as they grow, they will begin to get comfortable with the developments.
Some commonly asked questions during this period include:
- Is it normal for my breasts to hurt when growing?
- Is it normal for my breasts to be different sizes?
- Why do marks appear on my breasts?
Some of these are natural phenomenons and are expected at the early stages of breast development. However, in this article, we will focus on breast pain, what to expect, and ways to lessen the pain.
Breast Growth Pains
Many young women undergo breast pain at different points in their lives, and breast growth is a common cause. During puberty, hormones estrogen and progesterone are often released in a girl’s body, thereby making the breast tissues grow. As a result, the skin surrounding that area will start to stretch to accommodate the breast growth. This is the primary cause of breast stretch marks and breast growth pain.
Another possible reason for growth pain is hormones, estrogen, and progesterone. These hormones are not only responsible for the stimulation of breast growth, but they also cause the change of fluid levels in the breast tissues. In turn, this can increase the sensitivity of the breast, and on some occasions, it also makes breasts hurt.
These hormonal changes can also trigger slight breast pain during menstrual periods. This is a sign that your breasts are still experiencing certain developments.
Best Ways To Relieve Breast Growth Pains
Most times, the pain relieves naturally after a short growth period. In other cases, however, medical attention may be required to ease the pain. Some common ways to treat breast growth pain include:
- Eliminate an underlying source: This will involve significant adjustments such as wearing supportive bra tops. Additionally, you are advised to use a sports bra when exercising to reduce minor exercise-related pains.
- Use pain-relief medications: Sometimes, preventive remedies may prove to be futile. In such instances, you can turn to pain-relieving pills and gels.
- Visit a doctor: Like all other complications, if the pain persists, make sure to see a doctor for proper medical check-up and treatment.
Other Causes of Breast Pain
Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, can be experienced by women of all ages. However, it is most common among ladies experiencing puberty and menopause. A lot of times, these pains cease naturally without any need for medical attention. Recent research showed that out of 70% of women reporting breast pain annually, only about 15% end up needing medical treatments.
It is crucial to note that not all breast pain is a result of breast growth. From minor to aggravating causes, many other different factors can cause it. Including:
- Breast Cyst: A cyst is like a lump that is not cancerous. Breast cysts can appear as a result of milk ducts and gland changes. They often surface during the menstrual cycle. Cysts are usually fluid-filled and can sometimes be painful.
- Breast Infections: Breast pain can occur from an infection in the breast. The most common breast infection is mastitis, a painful breast infection that often occurs during breastfeeding periods. Symptoms of breast infections include:
- High temperature around the breast
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pain
- Tiredness
- Medication: Breast pain is also a common side effect of fertility-related drugs such as:
- Contraceptives
- Postmenopausal pills
- Infertility treatment pills
Bottom Line
Women are likely to experience breast growth pains at some point of their life. Although some may seem more severe than others, there is mostly no cause for worry. Nevertheless, as soon as you start to notice any strange changes or pain in your breast, do not hesitate to go for a medical check-up!
Random Questions
Your breast may be growing due to hormonal changes, such as during puberty or your menstrual cycle. These changes can cause fluid levels to shift, increasing sensitivity and potentially causing pain.
Breasts generally finish growing a few years after puberty begins, around the late teenage years. However, they may continue to change due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or hormonal changes throughout life.
Breast pain in an 8-year-old may be due to the start of puberty and the hormonal changes that come with it. This is a common occurrence, but you can see a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
