People of all genders can sometimes experience nipple pain – for different reasons and at different stages of life. Find out here what causes the pain and what you can do about it.
Pain in the nipples is usually harmless and is often accompanied by swollen or sore breasts. It particularly affects people during pregnancy and breastfeeding. But it can also occur in other circumstances in both women and men.
Causes of sore nipples in women
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According to the medical portal Netdoktor and the Apotheken-Umschau, sore nipples in women can have various causes:
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Changes in hormone levels can cause nipple pain in the second half of the female cycle, during puberty and during menopause.
- Sore nipples are common during pregnancy because the milk glands are fully developed and the milk ducts are dilating (duct ectasia). This can put pressure on the nipples.
- Sore nipples during breastfeeding are usually caused by milk congestion. This can occur after a long break from breastfeeding or if the baby is not positioned correctly.
- A rare cause of sore nipples is the formation of cysts. These are fluid-filled cavities in the glands of the breast. Such cysts are usually harmless.
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Fibroadenoma, the most common benign tumor in the breast, can also cause sore nipples. The same is true for breast cancer at a certain stage.
- Sensitive nipples can also be painful if bras or other clothing do not fit properly.
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Sore nipples in men
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It is not only women who suffer from sore breasts and nipples. Men often experience temporary hormonal breast enlargement during puberty and after the age of 50. This can cause pain in the breast. In rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
Pain relief and prevention
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If your nipples are acutely sore, there are several ways you can relieve the pain depending on the cause:
- In general, a lanolin-based ointment or cool compresses can help.
- If your nipples are irritated by improper clothing, skin care products or detergents, you should not wear or use them. It is best to wear loose clothing made of natural and soft materials.
- If your mammary glands are inflamed due to a bacterial infection, it must be treated – usually with conventional antibiotics, but sometimes with natural antibiotics.
- If the nipple is sore from breastfeeding, it is worth practicing breastfeeding with your midwife. According to experts, incorrect breastfeeding, sudden detachment of the baby or frequent changes of position can injure the nipple.
You can prevent pain caused by incorrect clothing or care products:
- Wear well-fitting bras. You should wear a nursing bra during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
- Wear skin-friendly clothing (e.g. made of cotton) and use gentle body care and detergents.
When should you see a doctor about sore nipples?
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Most of the time, nipple pain is harmless, especially if it occurs during the typical phases of life mentioned above. However, if you have very severe pain that lasts for several days, you should see a doctor. This also applies if you feel pain in one breast on one side. In this case, there could be a bacterial infection or a tumor.
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Edited by Adriana Jodlowska
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