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Anatomy of the female breast
The lobes, milk ducts, areola, nipple, and fatty and fibrous tissue are the main parts of the female breast.
Fat and fibrous tissue make up most of the breast. The lobes and ducts are spread throughout this tissue. Some women have "dense" breasts. This means there is more fibrous tissue than fat.
At childbirth, the lobes produce milk. The milk flows through the milk ducts to the nipple. Around the nipple is the areola. It contains tiny glands that lubricate the nipple during breast feeding. The areola also contains smooth muscles that cause the nipple to push out. This makes it easier for a baby to latch on during breastfeeding.
Current as of: April 18, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
