A new study from the University of Oulu suggests that the size of women's breasts might be related to thermoregulation for newborns, rather than solely for purposes of sexual selection or as fat storage.
Recent research from the University of Oulu has introduced a novel perspective on the longstanding question regarding the evolution of breast size in humans compared to other primates. Traditionally, it has been suggested that large breasts serve as fat storage or are a result of sexual selection, acting as indicators of fertility and health. However, this new study posits that another important function of breast size may be related to the thermoregulation of newborns, offering a fresh lens to view the biological purpose of breasts.
The researchers highlighted that newborns are particularly vulnerable to hypothermia due to their underdeveloped thermoregulation systems and lack of insulating body hair. This vulnerability suggests that the temperature of a mother's breasts could play a vital role in protecting infants by keeping them warm, thus enhancing their chances of survival in the early stages of life. This idea shifts the focus from purely reproductive or aesthetic theories to a survival-based interpretation of breast size.
Overall, this research implies significant implications for understanding human evolution and maternal-infant interactions. It opens the door for further studies to explore how anatomical traits evolve not only for reproductive success but also for ensuring the health and survival of offspring, emphasizing the need to consider multiple factors when examining biological developments.
