Nipple Pain: why your nipple may hurt 

Your nipples may hurt for different reasons. it can be caused by loose clothes, rashes, and infection that irritates the tender skin. some may be due to pregnancy, periods, and breastfeeding. let’s see what the main causes of nipple pains are and how to handle it.

Menstruation
The rises in estrogen level may cause breast tissue to swell resulting in sore nipple and breast. this can be a sign that you’re about to menstruate. This pain actually stops once you get your period or shortly after your menstruation.

Pregnancy
Your breast and nipple may hurt due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. the sign of pregnancy is painful nipple and breast in addition to:

• missed period
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tiredness
• Constant peeing.

You may ask your doctor what to do and choose a maternity bra that fits well.

Breastfeeding
breastfeeding could also be the cause of your nipple pain and you may feel it like a sharp pinch when your baby latches on your breast. the nipple may sometimes crack and bleed. you may ease the soreness by:

• Putting ointment or balm on your nipples
• softens the nipple before breastfeeding by squeezing out milk gently and rub it over the nipple.
• let nipple air dry after each feeding and change breast pad often.
• wear a cotton bra that fits well to avoid rubbing against your nipples.

Infection
infection like mastitis and thrush can be the cause of intense pain in your nipple. these infections are common during breastfeeding. Mastitis is an infection caused by bacteria that grows and infects the milk duct. it also affects women after menopause too. other symptoms are:

• Swollen breasts
• Chills
• Redness on the breast
• burning or warmth in the breast
• A fever of 101F or higher.

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Ensure you complete the dose even when you are better.

Thrush on the other hand is a yeast infection that feels like a stabbing, shooting, or burning in your nipples. your baby may be infected while breasting or they can infect you with it. it looks like a white coating on their tongue and cheeks. other symptoms aside from painful nipples are:

• Readiness on the nipple or breast
• Dry or flaky skin around the nipple

Your doctor may prescribe antifungals and your baby will also be treated if they are infected.

READ ALSO: Why does my nipple hurt 

Breast Cancer
Nipple pain can be a sign of cancer but it is rarely the main symptom. you may more likely have a painless lump in the breast. other symptoms of breast cancer include:

• swollen lymph nodes under your arm
• breast discharge that is different from milk
• scaling of the skin over the breast or nipple
• A nipple turns inward

Visit your doctor if you notice these changes in your breast.

Poorly fitting clothes
pain in the breast or nipple may result from a loose shirt or bra rubbing against the nipple for a long time especially when on motion like jogging or running. this friction can irritate the skin and even cause your nipples to bleed.

Wear a fitted top and bra before you run. you may also cover the nipple with waterproof bandage or nipple guards for protection.

conclusion

Nipple pain is not dangerous and it a very common thing especially when it has to do with hormonal changes. if it’s caused by an activity, you may either avoid the activities or find out how to address the irritation it causes.

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