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Nipple pain can be caused by a poor bra fit, but also by changes related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Serious conditions are not as common.
The causes of nipple pain are many. They can be related to a poor bra fit, the menstrual cycle or breastfeeding, and even serious pathologies such as breast cancer.
That is why in the presence of pain in the nipple of unknown cause and that does not improve, you should go to the doctor. Here we discuss the main causes and how to deal with them.
1. Very tight bra
This is the most common cause of nipple pain. The direct explanation is friction.
It is associated with a very tight bra, but it also happens with shirts or t-shirts. Especially during sports activities that increase friction. This leads to hypersensitivity, irritation and stabbing pain. There may also be dryness and redness of the skin.
The recommendation is to wear an appropriate bra size. When playing sports for extended periods, which adds sweat, wearing bras with proper support is key. To improve friction, the use of protectors on the nipples or moisturizing creams is recommended.
2. Hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle
Hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle can also cause nipple pain. It is mainly associated with premenstrual syndrome, which occurs 1 or 2 weeks before the start of the period. The culprits are increased levels of estrogen and progesterone.
This causes the breasts to become perky, which gives sensation of swelling and throbbing pain. This pain disappears with the onset of menstruation.
In this case, nipple pain usually improves with heat therapy and common pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
3. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, as in premenstrual syndrome, there is an increase in progesterone levels, which will cause nipple pain. Growth, swelling and discomfort in the breasts are among the first signs of pregnancy. Areolas can also be darkened.
In addition, there may also be swelling of the glands around the nipples. With the course of gestation, the pain in the nipple and breasts improves.
Wearing well-supported bras, especially to sleep, can ease nipple pain associated with pregnancy. Also put on moisturizing creams and cold gel.
4. Breastfeeding
Nipple pain when breastfeeding is common and is linked to the baby’s latch-on technique. If the child does not have enough breast in his mouth, the nipple will be against the gums and hard palate, which can cause irritation and pain.
In the same way, poor placement of the breast pump or excessive suction can cause nipple pain. Improving the baby’s latch technique and using the pump at a more comfortable setting helps to improve discomfort.
5. Associated with sexual intercourse
During sexual intercourse there may be pain in the nipple. This is due to body friction associated with sexual activity. But it’s a temporary pain and then it goes away. Moisturizing creams can be used on the nipples to keep friction to a minimum and improve symptoms.
6. Allergy or atopic dermatitis
Nipple pain can also be due to the presence of allergy or dermatitis on the skin of the breasts and the nipple. The symptoms are as follows:
- Irritation.
- redness
- Dry Skin.
- Scabs or blisters.
- Persistent itching.
Atopic dermatitis occurs when cells of the skin’s immune system overreact to an allergen or foreign agent, causing inflammation. It can be from contact with irritating substances, such as detergents and fabric softeners, body lotions, soap, perfumes, fabrics, or shaving cream.
In mild cases it is treated with a topical steroid. When you respond to over-the-counter creams, consult your dermatologist.
7. Infection
When there are skin lesions secondary to friction, an allergic reaction or poor breastfeeding technique, there is greater exposure and risk of infection.
So it is possible to get an infection from Candida albicanswhich generates sore nipples, redness, heat and swelling. The pain is burning and stabbing and does not improve with classical measures. The nipples may turn bright pink or the areola may take on a reddish or scaly hue.
On the other hand, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, mastitis, in which the milk is trapped in the excretory ducts, favoring the proliferation of bacteria. It presents with swelling, redness, hot breasts to the touch, pain in the nipple and in the breasts. Treatment is with antibiotics.
8. Cancer and Paget’s disease
In some cases, nipple and breast pain can be a symptom of cancer or Paget’s disease. But nevertheless, most tumors do not usually cause pain.
The Paget’s disease It is a type of cancer that directly affects the nipple. It usually manifests itself in the following way:
- Inverted or flattened nipple.
- Yellowish or bloody discharge from the nipple.
- Itching and tingling sensation.
- Red, scaly, crusty, or rough skin around the nipple and areola.
Does nipple pain require medical evaluation?
As usual, nipple pain is due to hormonal causes or friction and does not require immediate medical evaluation. However, if infection or alarm symptoms related to cancer are suspected, professional assessment should be sought promptly.
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