The breasts are one of the most important parts of our body, whether male or female. There are various parts of the breast – these include:
- Lobes – Each breast has between 15-20 lobes (or sections). These lobes surround the nipple.
- Glandular tissue – These tiny sections of tissue found inside the lobes have tiny bulb-like glands at the end that helps produce milk.
- Mammary ducts – These small tubes, or ducts, carry milk from glandular tissue (or lobules) to the nipples.
- Nipples – The nipple is in the center of the areola. Each nipple has about nine mammary ducts, as well as nerves.
- Areolae – The areola is the circular dark-colored area of skin surrounding the nipple. Areolae have glands called Montgomery’s glands that secrete a lubricating oil. This oil protects the nipple and skin from chafing during breastfeeding.
- Blood Vessels – Blood vessels help circulate blood throughout the breast, chest, and body.
- Nerves – The nipples have hundreds of nerve endings, which makes them sensitive to touch.
A breast contusion is a collection of blood that forms under the skin’s surface, very similar to having a large bruise on your breast. Although it is not cancerous, it could possibly be alarming to feel, as it may be painful or tender, or feel like a lump in the breast. A breast contusion can occur to anyone regardless of age or menopausal status.
It may also be caused by trauma or by medical procedures, like a breast biopsy or breast surgery. Usually, breast contusions are visible on a mammogram and can oftentimes look suspicious on other imaging as well.