Seios

Seios, in Portuguese, is the plural of seio, meaning breast or bosom. In anatomical terms, a breast is the anterior projection of the chest composed of glandular tissue, fat, and connective tissue. Breasts contain mammary glands capable of milk production; the nipple and areola are the protruding parts through which milk is discharged via lactiferous ducts. The internal structure includes lobes, lobules, ducts, and supporting stroma, while size and shape vary among individuals.

Breast development typically begins at puberty under hormonal influence, primarily estrogen and progesterone. Breasts may enlarge during pregnancy and lactation and often undergo changes after menopause. Variation in size, shape, and density is normal and influenced by genetics, age, body composition, and health status.

Common health considerations include benign conditions such as fibrocystic changes, cysts, and mastitis, as well as malignant conditions such as breast cancer. Screening and risk assessment involve awareness of changes, clinical examinations, and imaging where appropriate (for example, mammography or ultrasound) depending on age and risk factors. Treatments depend on the condition and may range from observation and medical management to surgery, radiation, or systemic therapy.

Culturally, the term seios is used in everyday language to refer to the breasts, while in medical contexts seio denotes the anatomical organ. Attitudes toward breasts vary across cultures, influencing language, body image, and public health discussions.