The female breasts, also known as the mammary glands, are accessory organs of reproduction; situated on each side of the sternum and extends between the levels of the second and sixth rib (see figure 1.7, below). The breasts lie in the superficial fascia of the chest wall over the pectoralis major muscle and are stabilised by suspensory ligaments.

The shape the breast is a hemispherical swelling and has a tail of tissue extending towards the axilla (the axillary tail of spence). Its size varies with each and with the stage of development as well as with age. It increases in weghit and size during pregnancy.

Alveoli: are the milk- secreting cells. Each alveolus is lined by millk-secreting cells. Small ducts which connect the alveoli are the lactifierous tubules. These tubes run to central duct called the Lactiferous duct. The widened-out portion of the duct where milk is stored is ampullae which lies under the areola.

Fig 1.7. The female breast

Last modified: Tuesday, 21 February 2017, 4:04 PM