Does Touching a Girl's Breasts Make Them Grow?

Is it true that when you or another person touches your boobs, they will get bigger?
– Katie*

No, it's not true. Touching or massaging breasts does not make them grow.

There's a lot of wrong information about breast development out there. Some of the things you may hear are outright cons — like special creams or pills that make breasts bigger. (They don't work!) Others are myths — some girls who want smaller breasts think that sleeping in a bra or wearing a bra that's too small can keep breasts from growing, but that's also not true.

In reality, genes and hormones determine breast growth. Some girls develop earlier, others later, and a girl's breasts can keep growing and changing into her late teens.

Every girl wants to be proud of her body. There are things you can do — like eating well and getting enough exercise and sleep — to help your body develop in a healthy way.

Don't feel shy about talking to your health care provider if you have questions about your body and how it is developing. Your doc is used to answering questions like this, and he or she will be able to give you advice about your individual growth and development.

* Names have been changed to protect user privacy.