Up a cup
Question
I love my breasts but I would like them to be a cup size bigger. I'm 19 and I've given them the chance to grow some more by themselves but it hasn't happened. I've been reading about pills that claim to increase breast size, but there are loads of different brands and opinions about whether or not they work. Some studies I've read even claim they might be dangerous. I'm quite keen to try one of these pills, but first I'd like some advice about how effective they are, and if there are any health risks when taking them.
Answer
People come in all shapes and sizes - and that includes women's breasts. Women develop at different ages, and as you are still in your teens, your breasts could still be developing. There are different options available if you feel unhappy with the size of your breasts but remember it's common for people to be unhappy about some aspect of their body.
NetDoctor advises: "One thing is common for all women; there is no medicine of any kind, no work-out machine or exercise that will significantly change the shape or size of your breasts. The only pills which would affect the size of your breasts are hormonally-based and they are unlikely to make a significant difference."
There can be certain hormones in the contraceptive pill that may stimulate breast growth in some people and it is a possible side-effect of the pill, but it will not affect everybody. Your doctor (GP) could discuss this in further detail with you.
According to Cancer Research, breast enlargement pills are supposed to work by "tricking your breasts into believing that you are pregnant. This means that the pills stimulate the production of oestrogen in your body in the same way that oestrogen is produced during pregnancy". There are many different pills available on the market and some may work for certain people but it's important to bear in mind that herbs and dietary supplements may not be regulated in the UK.
You may find it interesting to check out the Breast Enlargement and Enhancement Forum, where there is a review of breast enhancement pills and you can chat to other people sharing the same concerns.
It's worth remembering that a well-fitted bra can make a big difference to your posture, shape and confidence. To make sure you have a well-fitted bra, you can have a fitting at a lingerie or department store.
Perhaps the important thing to be thinking about is your self-image and sense of self-worth, and why you would like your breasts to be bigger. You may find it helpful to talk to friends or relatives about this. Almost all of us have at least one part of our body we're not happy with and it's easy to forget that whatever it is might be much more noticeable to ourselves than it is to others. You might find talking to people you trust helps you feel more comfortable about your breasts.
If you really do have much smaller breasts than you would like, it's best that you see your local doctor, since ultimately only a medical professional will be able to advise you on what is safe and appropriate for you.
Good answer? Bad info? Want to tell us what you think? We'd really like to hear what you've got to say about this answer so please click here to take the survey. Your feedback is confidential and as anonymous as you like.
