Each breast has 15 to 20 sections, or lobes, that surround the nipple in a radial manner, like spokes on a wheel. Inside these lobes are smaller sections, called lobules. At the end of each lobule are tiny bulbs that produce milk. These structures are linked together by small tubes called ducts, which carry milk to the nipples. Fat fills the spaces between the lobes and ducts. The nipple is in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola. The areola contains small glands that lubricate the nipple during breastfeeding. There are no muscles in the breasts, but muscles lie under each breast to cover the ribs.
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