Boobs half the world’s got ’em, the other half can’t stop staring at them. But what men don’t know about breasts is all the trouble they cause. We’re not talking about back pain and breastfeeding. Nope, it’s the nipple hair and chest acne that seem to get worse this time of year. As a part of our bikini prep series, we’ve already talked about thighs, bums, and underarms. And now, we’re taking a moment to solve your bust issues.
Every year, Sports Illustrated pays homage to this area, too, so we know we’re on the right track!
No matter your age, to keep your breasts healthy it helps to learn what’s normal and what’s not. It will put you on the lookout for changes that could be signs of trouble.
Just like any part of your body, find out what to expect at different stages of life.
“Knowing what your breasts look and feel like can help you recognize when something is suddenly different,” says Pamela Peeke, MD, author of Body for Life for Women. “The same way you pay attention to your skin and watch for new moles, you should pay attention to your breasts.”
Your doctor may give you a breast exam at your annual visit, and may teach you how to do a self-exam at home. Research doesn’t show that breast exams save lives or detect cancers earlier,
but many doctors still recommend them. And it’s always a good idea to be aware of your body and let your doctor know if you notice any changes.
What’s Normal, What’s Not
You may sometimes worry that your breasts don’t look “right.” But most of the things women are concerned about are not actually that unusual, Peeke says. For example, it’s completely normal if:
