A breast bud is the first sign of breast development in girls going through puberty. It's a small, firm lump that appears under the nipple and may be tender or sore. This is a completely normal part of puberty and is typically expected for girls in this age range.
For Caucasian girls, breast buds can start developing as young as 7 years old, while African-American girls may start as young as 6 years old. However, if a girl under 8 years old is experiencing breast bud development, it could be a sign of precocious puberty and a doctor should be consulted.
Here's a breakdown of the typical development timeline:
- 8-13 years old: Most females start puberty within this age range.
- 10-11 years old: Breast bud development typically begins.
- 13-14 years old: Peak age of onset for breast bud development.
It's important to note that:
- Breast buds can be slightly different in size and shape from person to person.
- Some girls may experience tenderness or soreness in the breast bud area, while others don't.
If a 14 year old girl experiences any unusual symptoms or concerns about their breast development, it's always best to consult a doctor for personalized guidance.
