Nipple pain is a surprisingly common complaint, affecting people of all genders and ages. That sharp sting, persistent soreness, or even a throbbing ache when your nipples are touched can be disconcerting and uncomfortable. Understanding why your nipples might be hurting when touched is the first step towards finding relief and addressing any underlying issues. This article will explore the various reasons behind nipple pain, from everyday irritants to conditions that may require medical attention.
1. Friction: The Most Common Culprit
Often, the simplest explanation for nipple pain is friction. This occurs when your nipples repeatedly rub against fabric, particularly during physical activities. Running, jogging, surfing, and even basketball can lead to what’s commonly known as “jogger’s nipple.” This condition arises from the constant chafing against clothing like shirts or ill-fitting bras.
The result of this friction can range from mild soreness and stinging to more severe pain and even bleeding. You might also notice that the skin of your nipples becomes dry, chapped, or irritated. The longer the duration of the activity, the more pronounced the friction and potential for nipple pain.
2. Infections: When Soreness Becomes a Sign
If your nipples are already compromised – perhaps due to friction, an allergic reaction, cracks, or bleeding – they become more vulnerable to infection. Additionally, lactation and breastfeeding can also slightly increase the risk of nipple infections.
Yeast Infections (Thrush)
One common type of infection is a yeast infection, also known as thrush. This fungal infection is typically caused by Candida albicans. It can develop due to tissue damage, recent antibiotic use, or a history of fungal infections.
Nipple thrush is often characterized by a persistent burning or stinging pain that doesn’t subside even when friction is eliminated. Visually, the nipples might appear bright pink, and the areola (the darker skin around the nipple) may be reddish or flaky.
For breastfeeding individuals, thrush pain is often described as a sharp, hot sensation felt immediately after nursing. It’s also important to note that signs of thrush infection may also appear in the baby’s mouth.
Mastitis
Mastitis is another type of infection that can occur, particularly during pregnancy when milk can become trapped in milk ducts. Bacteria can then proliferate within the duct and spread, leading to a swollen, red, and painful breast and nipple.
Mastitis requires medical treatment with antibiotics. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to an abscess. Seek medical attention if you experience nipple and breast pain accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Fever or chills
- Breast feeling warm to the touch
- Skin redness on the breast and nipple
- Irregular breast swelling
3. Allergies and Skin Conditions: Irritation and Inflammation
Pain and irritation accompanied by flaky, crusty, or blistering skin on the nipples could indicate an allergic reaction or atopic dermatitis (eczema). Many everyday household products can irritate sensitive nipple skin or trigger flare-ups of existing skin conditions like eczema. Common culprits include:
- Body lotions
- Laundry detergents
- Soaps
- Shaving creams
- Fabric softeners
- Perfumes
- Certain fabrics
Other signs of an allergic reaction may include redness, chapped skin around the nipple and areola, and persistent itching. A rash may also develop in some cases.
4. Sexual Activity: A Temporary Cause of Soreness
Sexual activity is another potential cause of nipple pain. Direct physical contact, including friction and activities involving the nipples, can lead to temporary soreness. This type of nipple pain is usually short-lived and typically resolves on its own with time and rest.
5. Hormonal Fluctuations: Monthly Cycle Sensitivities
The natural hormonal changes that occur during a menstrual cycle can also contribute to nipple and breast soreness. This is often experienced in the days leading up to menstruation. Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone cause more fluid to be retained in the breasts, leading to swelling and tenderness.
This hormonally driven nipple pain usually diminishes once menstruation begins. However, if the pain persists for more than a few days into your cycle, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
6. Cancer and Paget’s Disease: When to Be Concerned
While tumors are not typically painful, some nipple pain and related symptoms can be associated with conditions like cancer. Nipple pain related to cancer is more likely to affect only one breast and nipple.
Paget’s disease of the nipple is a rare form of cancer that specifically affects the nipple and often occurs alongside tumors within the same breast. Individuals with Paget’s disease and breast cancer may experience additional symptoms, including:
- A flattened or inverted nipple
- Yellowish or bloody discharge from the nipple
- Itching or tingling sensations
- Reddish, flaky, crusty, or scaly skin around the nipple and areola
Paget’s disease and breast cancer are diagnosed through examination of the affected cells. While Paget’s disease is uncommon, it’s crucial to seek medical advice if you are concerned about any unusual nipple symptoms.
7. Pregnancy: Hormonal and Physical Changes
Nipple pain and soreness are common during pregnancy. As your body prepares for breastfeeding, your breasts undergo significant changes. They may become larger and more sensitive overall. The nipples and areola may darken, ache, and you might notice small bumps appearing around the nipples.
Wearing well-fitting, supportive bras can help minimize friction and alleviate soreness. Some pregnant individuals find relief by wearing a supportive sleep bra overnight or applying cool gel packs to the nipples. These strategies can also be helpful for managing nipple and breast pain after childbirth.
8. Breastfeeding: Mastering the Latch and Pump
Breastfeeding is a frequent cause of nipple soreness, particularly in the early days and weeks. Often, the pain stems from the baby’s latching technique. If the baby doesn’t take enough of the breast into their mouth, the nipple can be compressed against the hard palate and gums. A proper latch involves the baby taking a deep portion of the breast, with the nipple positioned towards the back of their throat.
Using a breast pump can also sometimes cause nipple pain. This might be due to excessive suction or using a nipple shield that doesn’t fit correctly. Adjusting the pump to a more comfortable suction level and ensuring properly fitted nipple shields can help reduce discomfort.
Teething infants can also contribute to nipple pain as they may alter their latch or even bite down on the nipple. Encouraging the baby to take more of the breast into their mouth can help prevent biting.
If a baby presses the nipple too forcefully between their gums and the roof of their mouth, it can restrict blood flow to the nipple. This can lead to a vasospasm, a painful condition where the nipple turns white, then red, then purple in rapid succession.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many causes of nipple pain are benign and resolve on their own, it’s important to be aware of when to seek medical advice. Consult a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent nipple pain that doesn’t improve with self-care measures.
- Nipple pain accompanied by other symptoms like fever, breast redness, swelling, or discharge.
- Any changes in the appearance of your nipple, such as inversion, flattening, or skin changes.
- Concerns about Paget’s disease or breast cancer.
Understanding the potential causes of nipple pain when touched can empower you to take appropriate steps for relief and seek medical help when necessary.
