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As women age, breast changes are normal. The breasts of a woman who is 40 years old differ greatly from those of a 60 or 20-year-old. Understanding what is deemed as normal for your breasts when you are 40 years old could ensure you maintain great breast health in your 50s as well as beyond.

Breast Changes in Women in Their 40s

At this age, breasts are going to be softer. They will have less density because fat replaces tissues through a process known as involution. Because fat has a structure that is different than breast tissue, that causes the breasts of women to become saggy and droopy.

Also, at this age, some women develop cysts that are fluid-filled; fluid is usually trapped in the breast ducts. These cysts could be painful, but they are normally harmless. They cannot affect women’s risk of getting breast cancer. However, it’s important for women to monitor cysts presence or other masses to make sure their continued breast health.

Menopause

Most of the changes in the breast of women in their 40s occur around menopause time. Menopause is known to be a process that is natural during which women cease menstruation and ovulation and after which they are not able to have children. Women are officially in menopause when they have not had periods for twelve months consecutively.

Common Breast Changes

When women are in their 40s, the general changes that occur in their breast because of aging include:

• Lumpiness, which could be because of benign fibrocystic changes in their breasts or serious conditions like breast cancer.

• Wider space that is between their breasts

• An elongated, flattened or stretched appearance

• Downward pointing nipples

• Stretch marks

Aging changes in women breast at their 40s are visible on physical examination. Redness, puckering, or breast skin thickening, nipple discharge, a pull in nipple, hard lumps, or breast pain aren’t considered as normal aging changes. Women should see a doctor if they see either of these conditions. Also, they should see a doctor if one of their breasts is looking notably different than the other.

Risk of Women Developing Breast Cancer in Their 40s

Many experts concur that women should have mammogram screenings or a breast ultrasound yearly starting at the age of 40. A Swedish study of over one million women who were in their 40s showed that those who had gotten mammogram screenings were having a 29 percent less possibility of dying because of breast cancer than the ones who did not.

Alas, according to the ACS, just 62 percent of 40-somethings go for regular screenings. If cancer is detected, be ready for intensive treatment. It’s advisable to see a breast care expert and discuss what screening program is good for you.

Treating and Managing Women Breast Changes in Their 40s

Lots of women who are in their 40s ask how to prevent the breast from sagging. Women can help their breasts to look perkier by strengthening their core muscles and practicing good posture. They can also look for a supportive bra that will lift their breasts without digging into their skin. Quitting smoking or not smoking is essential for a good skin as well as tissue health.

Also, it’s important for women to be gentle to their body as possible as they can throughout their life. By getting regular and adequate sleep, participating in exercise regularly, and taking a healthy diet, women can do their best in promoting a gentle aging process.

Many of the breast changes in women at their 40s are a normal part of their aging process. If the changes occurring in your breast tissue significantly distress you, you can also consider cosmetic surgery. That procedure is capable of replacing breasts fullness and the position of your nipples.