Do your nipples just hurt sometimes? Do you feel unbearably sensitive even when wearing clothes? This is a common problem that many people, especially women, experience. But even though this is normal, it is also normal to have questions about what causes this and whether it is something to be afraid of. So today, let's talk clearly and simply about the things that can cause these nipples to hurt and what you can do about it.
How does this pain feel?
Even though nipple pain is described as a feeling, it can vary from person to person. See if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Even if I touch it, it becomes unbearably sensitive .
- It feels like a jolt of electricity, like a knife stabbing you .
- It always feels like there's some kind of difficulty coming from within .
- The nipples feel like they are burning .
- The nipples and the surrounding area appear red and swollen .
- There is always an itch .
What are the main causes of sore nipples?
There may be many reasons for this, not just one. Let's look at the main ones.
1. Hormonal Changes
This is often the main reason.
- Menstruation: It is very common for your breasts and nipples to be sore a few days before your period. This is because the breast tissue swells during these days as the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone change in our bodies.
- Other hormonal changes: Nipple pain can also occur during puberty, menopause, and when using hormonal birth control methods.
2. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes. So, nipple and breast pain can be one of the first symptoms of pregnancy . This is because your body's hormone levels suddenly increase. During this time, your nipples may become slightly larger, darker, and more sensitive than usual.
3. Breastfeeding or Pumping
If you're a new mom and your nipples are sore, the main reason could be that your baby isn't latching on properly. We call this a "bad latch."
What is a good latch? It means that when your baby sucks, not only your nipple, but also most of the dark area around it (the areola) should be in his mouth. If your baby only sucks on the tip of your nipple, it can be excruciatingly painful.
Although it is normal to experience some pain during the first few weeks of breastfeeding, if it persists, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.
If you are a pump user, your nipples can hurt if the breast shield/flange is the wrong size .
4. Friction
Wearing a tight bra or having your T-shirt rub against your nipples while running or exercising can also cause your nipples to become sore, dry, and cracked. This is common among athletes. You can reduce this by putting a Band-Aid on your nipples or applying something like petroleum jelly while exercising.
5. Infections
If the nipples are cracked or injured, there is a greater chance that bacteria will enter through them and cause an infection. There are several types of such infections.
| Type of infection | Simply put... | Additional visible features |
|---|---|---|
| Mastitis | This is a painful breast infection that is common in breastfeeding mothers. | Fever, red, hard lumps in the breast. |
| Thrush | This is a yeast infection of the nipple. It causes a burning pain. | Your baby's mouth, tongue, and cheeks may also become sticky and white. |
| Hair follicle infection (Folliculitis) | Infection of the fine hair follicles around the nipple. | Small blister-like bumps. |
6. Allergies or Skin Rashes
Some soaps, detergents, perfumes, and lotions can cause skin irritation and pain in the nipples. If this pain is accompanied by blisters, peeling of the skin, or redness , it may be dermatitis . Sometimes, eczema can also affect the nipples.
7. Cancer or other diseases
This is the thing that everyone fears the most. But it is very rare . Nipple pain can be a symptom of a condition like breast cancer or Paget's disease .
But it's not just the pain that happens. If there are also symptoms like a discharge from the nipple (not milk), lumps in the breast, or an inverted nipple , it should be taken seriously.
I'm not pregnant, but why do my nipples hurt?
Even if you're not pregnant, there are many other reasons why your nipples may hurt. As we've discussed before, it could be hormonal changes due to your menstrual cycle, rubbing against clothing, an infection, or an allergy. The most important thing is that if the pain persists, or if you also feel a lump in your breast or notice a discharge from your nipple, see your doctor right away.
When should you see a doctor?
Sore nipples are usually nothing to worry about. However, if you have any of the symptoms below, you should definitely see a doctor for advice.
- If the pain persists for several days .
- If any type of discharge other than milk (e.g. blood, yellow liquid) is coming out of the nipple.
- If you feel a new lump in your breast .
- If the pain is accompanied by fever and a feeling of lifelessness .
- If the nipple has changed shape and looks like it has sunken in .
Your doctor may refer you for a mammogram or ultrasound scan if necessary.
Take-Home Message
- Sore nipples are often caused by normal causes, such as hormonal changes and clothing rubbing against each other, and are nothing to worry about.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother, don't tolerate the pain. Check that your baby is latching on correctly. Seek counseling if necessary.
- Most importantly: If you have nipple pain, a lump, discharge, or a change in the shape of your nipple, don't ignore it. See a doctor right away.
- Rather than harboring doubts or fears, it is wiser to talk to your doctor and clarify the matter.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න