The area of dark-colored skin on the breast that surrounds the nipple. Enlarge. Anatomy of the female breast. The nipple and areola are shown on the outside of the breast.

What does the size of a woman's areola mean?

Areola size is something that you inherit from your parents, just like your breast and foot size, or your freckle pattern. That said, there are a few factors that can change the size, color, and shape of your areola over time, like puberty, periods, and of course, pregnancy.

What is the purpose of the areola?

Areolae: The areola is the circular dark-colored area of skin surrounding the nipple. Areolae have glands called Montgomery's glands that secrete a lubricating oil. This oil protects the nipple and skin from chafing during breastfeeding.