Discuss Anatomical Changes That Occur To The Breast During Puberty And Pregancy

Question 1

What is the blood supply for breasts

Answer 1

Internal and external mammary arteries
Intercostal arteries
Venous return corresponding veins

Question 2

What is the breast lymphatic drainage and nerve supply?

Answer 2

Lymph drains between both breasts into lymph nodes in axillae and mediastinum

Question 3

Explain mammogenesis

Answer 3

Fetal: branching morphogenesis is the development of the ductal system in utero. Mammary specific cells present from 4-6 weeks gestation. This is irrespective of fetal sex.

Neonatal: from birth, some glandular tissue is present, and milk may be produced.

Question 4

Explain breast development at puberty

Answer 4

Sexually dimorphic breast development e,b female breast development occurs under the influence of sex hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone.

Breast development is usually the first secondary sex characteristics, usually preceding pubic hair by 6 months.

Ductal development and branching, and lobular development occurs.
Nipple size increases, and the primary areola becomes pigmented.
Menstrual cycle occurs.

Question 5

Explain breast development in pregnancy. What hormones affect what?

Answer 5

Glandular development occurs under the influence of progesterone.

Ductal development occurs under the influence of oestrogen.

Milk production (colostrum) starts at 4 months / 16 weeks. Colostrum is synthesised, but lactation is suppressed under the influence of placental hormones.