A certain degree of breast sagging is to be expected as a woman ages, but during the teenage years it is unlikely you will experience sagging breasts. Possible causes of sagging at any stage of a woman's life may include being overweight, pregnancy, smoking or having large breasts that are poorly supported.
Symptoms
Your breasts are supported by ligaments; if these ligaments become stretched, the normal position of the breasts may lower as the ligaments are unable to hold the breast tissue as high as before. Symptoms of breast sagging include breasts and nipples hanging in a lower position than before, or stretch marks along the sides of the breasts.
Causes
Breast sagging is usually caused by breasts becoming larger or heavier, or insufficient breast support. Breastfeeding may cause breasts to sag due to the increased size, weight and use of the breasts during this period. Equally, high-impact sports such as running or dancing may contribute to breast sagging if you do not wear a sufficiently supportive bra for your breast size. According to the website MayoClinic, breast sagging is a natural part of aging, but in teens may also be caused by smoking or being overweight. Pregnancy is another natural cause of breast sagging -- teen mothers may be prone to sagging breasts due to body changes during and after pregnancy.
Theories/Speculation
Many women wonder whether breast-feeding an infant will cause breast sagging, but research has shown that breast-feeding has no negative effect on the size or shape of breasts overall. According to the MayoClinic website, the likelihood of breast sagging during pregnancy increases with each successive pregnancy, and is particularly likely for women with larger breasts.
Prevention/Solution
In order to avoid sagging breasts as a teen, take preventative measures to avoid stretching of the breast ligaments. Non-smokers are less likely to experience breast sagging, as smoking reduces the elasticity of skin on the breasts and elsewhere. Maintaining a healthy weight and adequate breast support during daily life and high-impact exercise will also help to prevent breast sagging. A study published in the July 2010 issue of the journal "Medicine in Sports and Exercise" reported that a sports bra that compressed and elevated the breasts was most beneficial in reducing discomfort during exercise for women with relatively large breasts.
Warning
Any unexpected changes in your breast or nipple size, position or shape could be a symptom of a more serious condition. You should perform regular self-examination of your breasts, and note any changes in appearance. If you are concerned about your breasts, do not hesitate to seek individual medical advice from your own primary care provider.
