Signs Your Breasts Are Growing During Puberty: What to Expect at Every Stage
Jul 1, 2025
Growing up comes with many changes. Some feel exciting, some feel confusing, and some you may not want to talk about out loud. Breast development is one of those changes. It’s personal and visible. Awkward for some, while exciting for others. But the truth is, it’s a natural part of growing up and something most girls go through.
If you've found yourself Googling things like “are my breasts developing” or “when will they stop feeling like this,” you’re definitely not alone. Breast development is one of the first signs that puberty is underway, and while it’s completely normal, it can also bring up a lot of questions and mixed feelings.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about breast buds during puberty, the signs that show your breasts are growing, and what to expect at every stage. Let’s make things feel a little less confusing and a lot more normal.
What Are Breast Buds and When Do They Start to Appear?
Breast buds are often the very first sign that your body is stepping into puberty. They are small, firm lumps that form under the nipple area. You might notice that one side starts before the other. This is very common.
The average age for breast buds is around 8 to 13 years old. Some may start earlier and some later. Every body has its own pace, and all of it is normal.
You might feel a little soreness or itchiness where the buds form. You might even wonder, “Are my breasts sore because they’re growing?” The answer is likely yes.
Stage One: Flat Chest, No Visible Changes Yet
Before breast growth starts, your chest will still look like it did during childhood. This is called Stage 1 of breast development.
You might feel nothing at all during this stage. But behind the scenes, hormones are starting to move. This is your body quietly preparing for growth.
Stage Two: The Start of Breast Buds
This is where things begin. Breast buds form under the nipple. They may feel like little round lumps. This is a clear sign your breasts are growing during puberty.
Your areola (the darker skin around your nipple) may look a bit puffy or raised. You may also notice nipple changes as a puberty sign, such as extra sensitivity.
During this time, the buds may feel tender, itchy, or sore. All of this is normal. You may wonder, “How do I know if my breasts are growing?” These small but clear changes are your answer.
Stage Three: Growing, Rounding, and More Noticeable Changes
As you move through puberty, your breasts begin to grow beyond just the buds. They start to look more rounded and fuller. This is the time when your body shape begins to change, too.
You might also see some puberty breast stretch marks if your skin is growing quickly. These are tiny pink or light lines that may appear on your breasts or chest. They are very common and fade over time.
Some girls worry about uneven breast growth during puberty. One breast may be a little bigger than the other. This is also very common. Most of the time, things even out as you grow older.
Stage Four: The Areola Changes and Shape Develops
At this stage, your breast shape becomes more noticeable. The areola and nipple may form a separate mound from the rest of the breast.
This stage might bring more soreness or tenderness, especially before your first period. Your breasts are responding to rising hormone levels, and that can bring a mix of feelings. Some days you might feel proud of your growing body. Other days, you might just want to wear something loose and comfy. Both feelings are okay.
Stage Five: Full Breast Development
This is the final stage of breast development. Your breasts are now more developed and rounded. The areola usually blends into the rest of the breast shape again.
The full size and shape of your breasts can continue to shift slightly into your late teens or early twenties. So if you’re wondering about breast growth after puberty, just know it’s still possible. Some growth may also happen later during pregnancy or hormonal changes.
Are My Breasts Growing? Signs to Look For
If you’re asking, “Are my breasts growing?” here are some signs to pay attention to:
Small, firm lumps under your nipples (these are the breast buds during puberty)
Tingling or soreness in your chest
Nipples becoming more sensitive
The skin around the nipple puffing out or changing shape
Itchy feelings as the skin stretches
One breast looking or feeling bigger than the other
Tiny stretch marks around the breast area
These are all clear signs your breasts are growing during puberty, and they are nothing to worry about.
Breast Growth and Emotions
Breast development can bring up a lot of feelings. You might feel excited, embarrassed, curious, or unsure all at once. Maybe you feel proud one day and uncomfortable the next. This is completely normal.
Growing breasts can also attract attention you may not want. It’s okay to talk to someone you trust if you ever feel uncomfortable or just need support.
You do not have to rush to wear a bra. But if soreness or movement becomes uncomfortable, wearing a soft training bra or crop top might help.
Early or Late Breast Growth: What’s Normal?
Some girls start breast development as early as 8. Others may not start until they’re 13 or 14. Both are normal.
Early breast bud development does not always mean an early period. And if your breasts haven’t started growing yet, that does not mean something is wrong.
Your body is moving in its own time. And that time is right for you.
Can You Have Complications When Your Breasts Are Growing?
As your breasts grow, you might notice some discomfort or changes. Most are normal parts of puberty and not a cause for worry.
Itchy Breasts During Puberty: Skin stretches as breasts grow, often causing itchy breasts during puberty. A fragrance-free moisturizer and soft cotton bras can help.
Breast Soreness Or Tenderness: Hormonal changes may cause breast soreness or tenderness, along with swelling, especially before periods. Warm compresses and a supportive bra can bring relief.
Stretch Marks: Rapid growth can leave pink or purple lines that fade over time. These marks are completely normal.
Uneven Growth: One breast may grow faster than the other for a while. They usually even out later in puberty.
When to See a Doctor: Sharp pain, lumps, or redness that does not go away should be checked by a doctor.
Stages of Breast Development with Age
Let’s quickly go over the stages again:
Stage One (Before puberty): Flat chest, no visible breast development.
Stage Two: Breast buds during puberty begin to form. Nipples may be more sensitive.
Stage Three: Breasts begin to round and grow. Skin may stretch.
Stage Four: Areola and nipple form a raised area.
Stage Five: Full breast shape is formed.
Remember, not everyone fits perfectly into these stages at exact ages. The timeline varies for everyone.
Why Do Breasts Develop in Puberty?
Breast growth is part of the body’s preparation for adulthood. Female breasts develop at puberty because of rising estrogen levels. This is the hormone that signals your body to grow in new ways.
Breasts have a role in future milk production during motherhood. But their development also ties into your menstrual cycle and overall body changes.
Tracking Breast Development Over Time
If you’re feeling curious, you can note changes in a journal. Some girls like to keep track of how they’re feeling, what’s changing in their body, and what questions they have. This can help you better understand your cycle, your mood, and your body overall.
You don’t need to measure or compare yourself to others. There’s no perfect size, shape, or timeline.
How to Choose Your First Bra
Picking your first bra can feel like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The most important thing is comfort. Start with a soft, non-wired bra or a cotton sports bra. These are gentle on sensitive skin and give light support as your breasts grow.
Look for wide straps and stretchy fabric that moves with your body. Try a few styles to see what feels best because everybody is different. It’s also normal if your size changes quickly during puberty. Having a couple of bras in different sizes can help you feel prepared.
Remember, a bra isn’t about changing how you look. It’s about supporting your body and helping you feel comfortable as you grow.
Embrace Your Body
Your body is doing exactly what it’s meant to do, and it’s beautiful in every stage. Breasts grow in all shapes and sizes, and no two people will have the same journey. It’s perfectly okay if your breasts start growing later than your friends, or if they seem to grow faster. It’s okay if they are big, small, round, uneven, or still changing.
Puberty can feel confusing at times, but every body develops in its own unique way. What matters most is remembering that your worth has nothing to do with size or shape. Take care of your body with kindness. Wear clothes that feel comfortable, and choose bras that support you without digging in or causing discomfort.
Celebrate the changes you see, and know it’s also okay if you’re still waiting. You are growing at your own pace, and that pace is perfect for you.
When to Talk to Someone
Sometimes, it helps to have a quiet chat with a parent, doctor, or older sibling. If something doesn’t feel right or is worrying you, it’s okay to ask questions.
A few things that might be worth checking with a doctor:
Severe pain in one area
A lump that feels very hard or grows quickly
Redness or heat around one breast
Discharge from your nipple (unless breastfeeding)
But most of the time, what you’re feeling is a normal part of growing up.
Final Thoughts
Puberty is not just about periods. It’s about all the quiet and visible changes that tell your body it’s growing. One of the first signs is breasts growing during puberty, and it happens in gentle stages.
You may have moments of soreness, questions, or curiosity. You may look in the mirror and wonder what’s next. Just remember, all of it is part of your journey. Your body is doing something amazing.
You are not behind. You are not early. You are right on time. And you are not alone. Meanwhile, at Lunara, we believe in supporting every stage of your journey. We’re here to help you understand your cycle later on, and to guide you with kindness.
Our upcoming tools and trackers will help you keep a gentle eye on your period timeline, and more. You can join the waitlist to be one of the first to try the Lunara app.
You are growing beautifully. We’re here with you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Development
Q: When do breasts usually start growing?
Most girls start noticing breast development between the ages of 8 and 13. The first sign is usually the appearance of small breast buds under the nipple.
Q: How long does breast growth take?
Breast development is gradual and can take several years to complete. It often continues into your late teens and may change again during pregnancy or hormonal shifts.
Q: Is it normal for one breast to grow faster than the other?
Yes, it’s very common for breasts to grow at slightly different rates. Over time, they usually even out. Even if they stay a little uneven, that’s totally normal too.
Q: Why do my breasts feel itchy sometimes?
Itchiness is usually caused by the skin stretching during growth. Moisturizing gently and wearing soft fabrics can help relieve it.
Q: Can breasts be sore before your period starts?
Yes, many girls feel soreness or tenderness in their breasts before or during their period. This is linked to changes in hormones and usually goes away in a few days.
Q: What if I notice stretch marks?
Stretch marks are totally normal during puberty. They appear when your skin grows quickly and may look pink, red, or light brown. Over time, they usually fade.
Q. Can breasts continue growing into your 20s or 30s?
Yes, they can. Breasts may keep changing shape or size into your 20s and even 30s. This is often because of weight changes, hormones, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. It is completely normal for your body to keep adjusting as you grow older.
Growing up comes with many changes. Some feel exciting, some feel confusing, and some you may not want to talk about out loud. Breast development is one of those changes. It’s personal and visible. Awkward for some, while exciting for others. But the truth is, it’s a natural part of growing up and something most girls go through.
If you've found yourself Googling things like “are my breasts developing” or “when will they stop feeling like this,” you’re definitely not alone. Breast development is one of the first signs that puberty is underway, and while it’s completely normal, it can also bring up a lot of questions and mixed feelings.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about breast buds during puberty, the signs that show your breasts are growing, and what to expect at every stage. Let’s make things feel a little less confusing and a lot more normal.
What Are Breast Buds and When Do They Start to Appear?
Breast buds are often the very first sign that your body is stepping into puberty. They are small, firm lumps that form under the nipple area. You might notice that one side starts before the other. This is very common.
The average age for breast buds is around 8 to 13 years old. Some may start earlier and some later. Every body has its own pace, and all of it is normal.
You might feel a little soreness or itchiness where the buds form. You might even wonder, “Are my breasts sore because they’re growing?” The answer is likely yes.
Stage One: Flat Chest, No Visible Changes Yet
Before breast growth starts, your chest will still look like it did during childhood. This is called Stage 1 of breast development.
You might feel nothing at all during this stage. But behind the scenes, hormones are starting to move. This is your body quietly preparing for growth.
Stage Two: The Start of Breast Buds
This is where things begin. Breast buds form under the nipple. They may feel like little round lumps. This is a clear sign your breasts are growing during puberty.
Your areola (the darker skin around your nipple) may look a bit puffy or raised. You may also notice nipple changes as a puberty sign, such as extra sensitivity.
During this time, the buds may feel tender, itchy, or sore. All of this is normal. You may wonder, “How do I know if my breasts are growing?” These small but clear changes are your answer.
Stage Three: Growing, Rounding, and More Noticeable Changes
As you move through puberty, your breasts begin to grow beyond just the buds. They start to look more rounded and fuller. This is the time when your body shape begins to change, too.
You might also see some puberty breast stretch marks if your skin is growing quickly. These are tiny pink or light lines that may appear on your breasts or chest. They are very common and fade over time.
Some girls worry about uneven breast growth during puberty. One breast may be a little bigger than the other. This is also very common. Most of the time, things even out as you grow older.
Stage Four: The Areola Changes and Shape Develops
At this stage, your breast shape becomes more noticeable. The areola and nipple may form a separate mound from the rest of the breast.
This stage might bring more soreness or tenderness, especially before your first period. Your breasts are responding to rising hormone levels, and that can bring a mix of feelings. Some days you might feel proud of your growing body. Other days, you might just want to wear something loose and comfy. Both feelings are okay.
Stage Five: Full Breast Development
This is the final stage of breast development. Your breasts are now more developed and rounded. The areola usually blends into the rest of the breast shape again.
The full size and shape of your breasts can continue to shift slightly into your late teens or early twenties. So if you’re wondering about breast growth after puberty, just know it’s still possible. Some growth may also happen later during pregnancy or hormonal changes.
Are My Breasts Growing? Signs to Look For
If you’re asking, “Are my breasts growing?” here are some signs to pay attention to:
Small, firm lumps under your nipples (these are the breast buds during puberty)
Tingling or soreness in your chest
Nipples becoming more sensitive
The skin around the nipple puffing out or changing shape
Itchy feelings as the skin stretches
One breast looking or feeling bigger than the other
Tiny stretch marks around the breast area
These are all clear signs your breasts are growing during puberty, and they are nothing to worry about.
Breast Growth and Emotions
Breast development can bring up a lot of feelings. You might feel excited, embarrassed, curious, or unsure all at once. Maybe you feel proud one day and uncomfortable the next. This is completely normal.
Growing breasts can also attract attention you may not want. It’s okay to talk to someone you trust if you ever feel uncomfortable or just need support.
You do not have to rush to wear a bra. But if soreness or movement becomes uncomfortable, wearing a soft training bra or crop top might help.
Early or Late Breast Growth: What’s Normal?
Some girls start breast development as early as 8. Others may not start until they’re 13 or 14. Both are normal.
Early breast bud development does not always mean an early period. And if your breasts haven’t started growing yet, that does not mean something is wrong.
Your body is moving in its own time. And that time is right for you.
Can You Have Complications When Your Breasts Are Growing?
As your breasts grow, you might notice some discomfort or changes. Most are normal parts of puberty and not a cause for worry.
Itchy Breasts During Puberty: Skin stretches as breasts grow, often causing itchy breasts during puberty. A fragrance-free moisturizer and soft cotton bras can help.
Breast Soreness Or Tenderness: Hormonal changes may cause breast soreness or tenderness, along with swelling, especially before periods. Warm compresses and a supportive bra can bring relief.
Stretch Marks: Rapid growth can leave pink or purple lines that fade over time. These marks are completely normal.
Uneven Growth: One breast may grow faster than the other for a while. They usually even out later in puberty.
When to See a Doctor: Sharp pain, lumps, or redness that does not go away should be checked by a doctor.
Stages of Breast Development with Age
Let’s quickly go over the stages again:
Stage One (Before puberty): Flat chest, no visible breast development.
Stage Two: Breast buds during puberty begin to form. Nipples may be more sensitive.
Stage Three: Breasts begin to round and grow. Skin may stretch.
Stage Four: Areola and nipple form a raised area.
Stage Five: Full breast shape is formed.
Remember, not everyone fits perfectly into these stages at exact ages. The timeline varies for everyone.
Why Do Breasts Develop in Puberty?
Breast growth is part of the body’s preparation for adulthood. Female breasts develop at puberty because of rising estrogen levels. This is the hormone that signals your body to grow in new ways.
Breasts have a role in future milk production during motherhood. But their development also ties into your menstrual cycle and overall body changes.
Tracking Breast Development Over Time
If you’re feeling curious, you can note changes in a journal. Some girls like to keep track of how they’re feeling, what’s changing in their body, and what questions they have. This can help you better understand your cycle, your mood, and your body overall.
You don’t need to measure or compare yourself to others. There’s no perfect size, shape, or timeline.
How to Choose Your First Bra
Picking your first bra can feel like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The most important thing is comfort. Start with a soft, non-wired bra or a cotton sports bra. These are gentle on sensitive skin and give light support as your breasts grow.
Look for wide straps and stretchy fabric that moves with your body. Try a few styles to see what feels best because everybody is different. It’s also normal if your size changes quickly during puberty. Having a couple of bras in different sizes can help you feel prepared.
Remember, a bra isn’t about changing how you look. It’s about supporting your body and helping you feel comfortable as you grow.
Embrace Your Body
Your body is doing exactly what it’s meant to do, and it’s beautiful in every stage. Breasts grow in all shapes and sizes, and no two people will have the same journey. It’s perfectly okay if your breasts start growing later than your friends, or if they seem to grow faster. It’s okay if they are big, small, round, uneven, or still changing.
Puberty can feel confusing at times, but every body develops in its own unique way. What matters most is remembering that your worth has nothing to do with size or shape. Take care of your body with kindness. Wear clothes that feel comfortable, and choose bras that support you without digging in or causing discomfort.
Celebrate the changes you see, and know it’s also okay if you’re still waiting. You are growing at your own pace, and that pace is perfect for you.
When to Talk to Someone
Sometimes, it helps to have a quiet chat with a parent, doctor, or older sibling. If something doesn’t feel right or is worrying you, it’s okay to ask questions.
A few things that might be worth checking with a doctor:
Severe pain in one area
A lump that feels very hard or grows quickly
Redness or heat around one breast
Discharge from your nipple (unless breastfeeding)
But most of the time, what you’re feeling is a normal part of growing up.
Final Thoughts
Puberty is not just about periods. It’s about all the quiet and visible changes that tell your body it’s growing. One of the first signs is breasts growing during puberty, and it happens in gentle stages.
You may have moments of soreness, questions, or curiosity. You may look in the mirror and wonder what’s next. Just remember, all of it is part of your journey. Your body is doing something amazing.
You are not behind. You are not early. You are right on time. And you are not alone. Meanwhile, at Lunara, we believe in supporting every stage of your journey. We’re here to help you understand your cycle later on, and to guide you with kindness.
Our upcoming tools and trackers will help you keep a gentle eye on your period timeline, and more. You can join the waitlist to be one of the first to try the Lunara app.
You are growing beautifully. We’re here with you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Development
Q: When do breasts usually start growing?
Most girls start noticing breast development between the ages of 8 and 13. The first sign is usually the appearance of small breast buds under the nipple.
Q: How long does breast growth take?
Breast development is gradual and can take several years to complete. It often continues into your late teens and may change again during pregnancy or hormonal shifts.
Q: Is it normal for one breast to grow faster than the other?
Yes, it’s very common for breasts to grow at slightly different rates. Over time, they usually even out. Even if they stay a little uneven, that’s totally normal too.
Q: Why do my breasts feel itchy sometimes?
Itchiness is usually caused by the skin stretching during growth. Moisturizing gently and wearing soft fabrics can help relieve it.
Q: Can breasts be sore before your period starts?
Yes, many girls feel soreness or tenderness in their breasts before or during their period. This is linked to changes in hormones and usually goes away in a few days.
Q: What if I notice stretch marks?
Stretch marks are totally normal during puberty. They appear when your skin grows quickly and may look pink, red, or light brown. Over time, they usually fade.
Q. Can breasts continue growing into your 20s or 30s?
Yes, they can. Breasts may keep changing shape or size into your 20s and even 30s. This is often because of weight changes, hormones, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. It is completely normal for your body to keep adjusting as you grow older.