Breast development is one of the first signs of puberty in girls, and it happens in stages that may be a bit confusing at first. Here's our simple guide on what to expect as you go through each stage.
Breast development can begin as early as 8 years old and may continue into your late teenage years, so it's important to know what to expect and why! Your journey will be unique to you, so to help you make sense of those budding boobs, we’ve put together this handy guide.
Most girls start developing breasts between 8 and 13 years old. One of the first signs might be that your chest feels sore, itchy, or tender. That’s because your skin is stretching to make room for new growth—even if you can’t see much yet!
One of the first signs of breast development in girls is a little swelling under the nipple. It might feel sore or tender, but don’t worry, it’s a normal part of growing up.
Next comes the appearance of breast buds—small, firm lumps under the nipple about the size of a coin. This stage is called thelarche, and it means your breasts are starting to grow. The area around the nipple (called the areola) might also look puffier or darker.
It’s common for one breast to grow faster than the other. That’s totally normal, think of them as sisters, not twins!
As time goes on, your breasts will look rounder and fuller. Inside, the parts that help produce breast milk later in life are forming. This stage is when you’ll really start to notice changes in breast shape and size.
A breast bud can feel quite hard to the touch and is often tender or sore. But don't worry if you accidently knock the breast, the odd knock here and there will do no lasting harm.
Breast buds are just the beginning of breast growth, and they won’t disappear or be replaced by anything. They will continue to grow into the breast tissue and become the size and shape you’ll be more familiar with as a young woman.
Your nipples and areola (that coloured bit around the nipple) may become more raised or change colour. Sometimes it looks like a small bump on top of your breast, don't panic, this is just part of the development process.
Eventually, your breasts will settle into their more adult shape. Some girls have protruding nipples, while others have flat or inverted nipples. All of these are completely normal!
Breast development at this early stage doesn’t require a bra for support, but your chest may feel tender, sore or even a little itchy as your breasts start to grow. A soft cup bra, starter or training bra might make you feel more comfortable as they provide some extra padding for the area, but if you’re comfortable without it, this is fine too!
Your breasts usually start developing about two years before your first period, but this can be different for everyone. Some girls notice changes earlier, and others a bit later—and that’s totally normal!
Once you’ve started your period, you might feel that your breasts get sore or tender in the days before it arrives. This happens because of hormones—the same ones that control your menstrual cycle. These hormones can also make your breasts feel a little fuller or heavier for a short time.
Remember, everyone’s body grows at its own pace. Try not to compare yourself to friends or classmates. Instead, focus on learning what’s normal for your body and being kind to yourself as you grow.
No matter the size or shape, all breasts are normal—there’s no “perfect” kind. How your breasts grow depends on your genes and your unique body. It’s also super common for one breast to be a little different from the other.
Some girls feel excited about their new shape, while others feel shy—both are totally okay. Everyone develops at their own pace, so try not to compare. Your body is doing just what it’s meant to!
Have you ever wondered what breasts are made of, or what’s happening as they grow during puberty, you’re not alone.
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No, is the simple answer, breast growth usually continues through your teen years and can slow down or stop in your late teens or early twenties. The final size depends on your genes and body type.
However, throughout your life your breasts may change in size, just like the rest of our body!
As your breasts grow, the skin stretches and hormones change, which can make them feel tender, sore, or itchy. It’s a normal part of development and usually doesn’t last long. Our top tip is to gently massage them at night with a little body oil or moisturiser to help the skin feel more supple.
Breast development usually begins between ages 8 and 13, but it’s different for everyone. Some girls start earlier, some later, and both are totally normal!
Yes, it's absolutely normal one breast to grow before the other, but don't worry the other one will catch-up, just remember that no two breasts are identical or a perfect match.
For the first few months you may not need to wear a bra or crop top if you don't want to. But some girls wear a training bra or sports bra for comfort or support, especially if their breast buds feels sore or if they’re active.
Everyone starts puberty at a different time. Some girls develop earlier, and some later. It’s totally normal to be on your own timeline, your body knows what it’s doing!
Breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Just because yours are smaller now doesn’t mean they’ll stay that way...and even if they do, that’s perfectly okay. There’s no “right” size, no where does it say 'bigger is better'!
Yes, it’s completely normal to feel unsure or shy about changes. Puberty can be overwhelming and breast development is often the first sign puberty has started for you, but you’re not alone and these feelings usually get easier with time and as you get used to your new shape.
