History of the Bra

The bra is a supportive undergarment that women all over the world use to relieve back pain, act as a stylish accessory, and accentuate the breasts. A relatively modern invention, the bra has evolved tremendously over the last century from its humble beginnings as a lightweight piece of cloth that replaced the corset. Now, bras…

Breastfeeding and the Workplace

In the United States, the number of working women increases yearly. As the number of working mothers increases, so does concern over how employers can best support them. After a certain point, most working parents must decide whether to continue breastfeeding or begin using formula. Well-respected institutions, health care professionals, and public health officials have begun to strongly…

Breastfeeding: Benefits and Disadvantages

Lactation, or milk production in the breasts, begins about one to three days after a woman gives birth. Pituitary hormones stimulate milk production in response to the stimulation of the infants suckling the nipples.1 At this time, based on personal preference, you can decide whether you would like to feed your newborn with breast milk…

Breast Self-Exam

Performing breast self-exams on a regular basis can help detect breast abnormalities at an early stage. Adult females (ages 20 and older) should perform breast self-exams (BSE) at least once per month. Regularly performing breast exams can help you become familiar with the look and feel of your breasts so that you can more easily…

Breast Augmentation

Breasts are the human mammary glands. They are found on the chest wall and are made up of connective tissue, breast tissue and fat.1 Lobes, which are made up of several lobules, produce milk. Milk ducts connect the lobes to the nipple, which allows for the release of milk. Breasts vary in size, but most…

Mastectomy

Mastectomy is the surgical removal of all or some of a patient’s breast tissue, usually performed in order to treat or prevent breast cancer. Mastectomy is not to be confused with lumpectomy, which is the removal of only the cancerous mass from the breast along with a minimal amount of surrounding healthy tissue.1 Mastectomy is…

A Partner’s Guide to Pregnancy

            As a partner, it may sometimes feel like you are only spectating your partner’s pregnancy from the sidelines. However, a partner’s involvement during pregnancy facilitates the bond you will share with the baby, plus it builds the foundation for your new or expanding family. Making a point to show…