This continues for approximately four years until the final shape of the breast (size, volume, density) is established at about the age of 21. Mammoplasia (breast enlargement) in girls begins at puberty, unlike all other primates in which breasts enlarge only during lactation. Changes during the menstrual cycle
During the menstrual cycle, the breasts are enlarged by premenstrual water retention and temporary growth. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
The breasts reach full maturity only when a womans first pregnancy occurs. Changes to the breasts are among the first signs of pregnancy. The breasts become larger, the nipple-areola complex becomes larger and darker, the Montgomerys glands enlarge, and veins sometimes become more visible. Breast tenderness during pregnancy is common, especially during the first trimester. By mid-pregnancy, the breast is physiologically capable of lactation and some women can express colostrum, a form of breast milk.Pregnancy causes elevated levels of the hormone prolactin, which has a key role in the production of milk. However, milk production is blocked by the hormones progesterone and estrogen until after delivery, when progesterone and estrogen levels plummet. Menopause
At menopause, breast atrophy occurs. The breasts can decrease in size when the levels of circulating estrogen decline. The adipose tissue and milk glands also begin to wither. The breasts can also become enlarged from adverse side effects of combined oral contraceptive pills. The size of the breasts can also increase and decrease in response to weight fluctuations.
Lactic acid/citric acid/potassium bitartrate, sold under the brand name Phexxi, is a non-hormonal combination medication used as a method of birth control. It contains lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate. It is a gel inserted into the vagina.The most common adverse reactions include vulvovaginal burning sensation, vulvovaginal pruritus, vulvovaginal mycotic infection, urinary tract infection, vulvovaginal discomfort, bacterial vaginosis, vaginal discharge, genital discomfort, dysuria, and vulvovaginal pain. Medical uses
The combination is indicated for the prevention of pregnancy in females of reproductive potential for use as an on-demand method of contraception. History
The combination was approved for medical use in the United States in May 2020. References
External links
"Lactic acid". Drug Information Portal. U.S. National Library of Medicine. "Citric acid". Drug Information Portal. U.S. National Library of Medicine. "Potassium bitartrate". Drug Information Portal. U.S. National Library of Medicine.