Anatomy of the Breast

Knowing the anatomy of the breast is an important part of learning your anatomy. Breasts are considered modified sweat glans that produce milk. In society the breasts have two functions, breastfeeding and sexual function.

The production of milk is called lactation. The shape of the breast helps to retain heat, a lot of heat is needed to produce breast milk. The production of milk unrelated to pregnancy can be caused by medication, extreme stress or endocrine disorders.

Breasts differ in size and shape. Often one breast is larger than the other (statistically the left one). The shape of a woman's breast is usually dependent on the support of the underlying muscles. The skin covering the breast also offers some support and will usually determine the shape of the upper portion of the breast.

Development of the breasts begins in puberty and is triggered by the hormone estrogen. A woman's breasts will change over time due to life changes, pregnancy, breast feeding, illness, weight loss or gain, etc.

Breasts play an important role in sexual behavior. When aroused the breasts will increase in size and the nipples will harden. The breasts are often, but not always, sensitive to touch. Besides the anatomical abilities, they also provide a source of visual or touchable stimulation to the male and/or female.

Chest Wall

Pectoralis Muscles are the chest muscles.

Lobules are an anatomical division between areas.

Nipple is the structure that fluid emanates from.

Areola is the circular area around the nipple, of a different shade of skin.

Duct leads from the lobules of the mammary glad to the nipple. It carries the milk to the nipple.

Fatty Tissue is the surrounding tissue in the breast, made of fat.

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