Women's breasts are the object of increased attention of all men without exception and the pride of women themselves. However, few people know five amazing facts that will help you take a fresh look at female nipples. We know little about this seductive part of the chest.
Basically, this is their sensitivity to foreplay, as well as the direct purpose - the feeding of newborn children .. The information will be useful and interesting for both women and men.
We will really surprise you with the proposed facts and even help you to accept some of the features of this part of the body!
The color and size of female nipples: what are the norms
Nipples can be of different shapes, sizes and colors. They are small and large, pale pink or dark in color, almost invisible. Often women with completely white skin have bright nipples, the color of which approaches dark brown. And that's okay and not a sign of some disease.
It is worth knowing that the skin of the areola has red and brown pigments. The color of the skin in this area depends on the predominance of one of them. By the way, during pregnancy, the areola tends to darken - and this is also normal.
Women's nipples can have a different shape and color. Light pink to dark brown shades are normal.
How does piercing and tattooing of female nipples affect the sensitivity
Women's nipples and piercings are a fairly discussed topic. And opinions in this case are radically divided: half of women and men say “yes” to such breast decoration, and the other half - a categorical “no”. And the last opinion is based on the fact that after the puncture, the sensitivity of the nipples supposedly decreases. Yes, there is a risk of infection.
We must say right away that piercing does not reduce the sensitivity of the nipples. Often - on the contrary: it only intensifies. As for infections, it all depends on whether the master observes hygiene in the workplace.
An interesting procedure is nipple tattooing - it helps to correct the shape, as well as make the color contrast to the skin tone.
Female nipples and piercing are quite compatible concepts. It is only important to choose a qualified craftsman who will observe 100% hygiene of the workplace and tools. The sensitivity from such manipulation will definitely not decrease!
Hair on female nipples - when it's normal, when it's not
Yes, the area around the areola has hair - they are, most often, light, small and almost invisible. This is quite normal, and not at all a reason to be ashamed.
You should be wary only if there is a lot of such hair on the nipples, they grow hard and noticeable. This means that the body may have problems at the hormonal level - the predominance of androgens. Contact an endocrinologist who will prescribe all the necessary examinations.
If you strive for the ideal and do not want to see hair on your chest, then this cosmetic problem has several solutions:
Careful cutting with nail scissors;
. laser hair removal in a cosmetic clinic.
It is impossible to pluck the hairs with tweezers - they can grow darker and thicker, grow under the skin.
A little hair on and around the nipples is normal. If they are visible only to you upon closer inspection, then you do not need to do anything with them. However, if they have darkened, their number has increased - consult a doctor, it may be a problem with hormones.
More than two nipples in women - sometimes it happens
Sometimes people are born who have several nipples on their bodies. This is such a “reverse evolution” - an echo of those times when our monkey ancestors had several nipples for feeding their cubs. In medicine, this phenomenon is called "additional nipples." And they are located on the body by themselves - breast of them will not develop. In some people, they look like moles - nothing more.
It is worth noting that such famous people as Lily Allen, Tilda Swinton and Kerry Underwood were born with three nipples. Of the three, only Kerry Underwood removed the extra nipple. The rest live quite calmly with this "defect", considering it an integral part of their own individuality.
The third nipple on the body is one of the variants of the norm. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove it or fear that a third breast will grow out of it. But if you have a complex about this, contact a qualified surgeon.
Inverted female nipples - norm and pathology
In some women, the nipples are retracted - that is, they seem to be turned inside the chest. And this is also normal. No need to be afraid that this is a sign of illness and run to the doctor. Although it is worth turning to it, because the only real drawback of this form is possible problems With feeding a child .
Otherwise, inverted nipples pose no danger. The exception is if they previously had a “normal” shape, and then changed it dramatically. In this case, be sure to contact a female doctor - a dangerous factor, it may indicate oncology.
Inverted female nipples are one of the normal options. The only problem with them is that they can interfere with the feeding of the baby. Therefore, when planning a pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor for an additional examination.
Female nipples can be of different shapes and colors, small hairs grow on them, and there can also be not two, but three. All this makes each representative of the fair sex unique and unrepeatable. Do not think that there is some ideal shape or color, breast size and the nipples themselves.
Variety was conceived by nature, so you should not be ashamed of your chest just because it does not look like the one that a popular film actress or singer proudly “wears”.
Moreover, even famous people are not perfect - remember, at least, Lily Allen, who has three instead of two nipples. And she considers the "extra" nipple her highlight and is not going to remove it! Your breasts are exactly the reason to love yourself as you are.
You may be interested in: How to deal with the shortcomings of your appearance.
Most often, increased sensitivity of the nipples is associated with restructuring during pregnancy. This is one of the very first symptoms indicating successful fertilization. Of course, to call this feeling pleasant will not work, because it causes discomfort and irritation.
What causes nipple sensitivity during pregnancy?
Still not guessing about their interesting position, expectant mothers are perplexed why the nipples have become very sensitive. Such a phenomenon can be attributed to the next wisdom of nature, which provided for everything to the smallest detail and created the necessary conditions for the growth and development of a new life. The fact is that the increased sensitivity of the nipples in the event of pregnancy performs the function of protecting the breast from stimulation. Which can cause uterine contractions, and the expulsion of the embryo from the uterine cavity. From a scientific point of view, the increased sensitivity of the nipples is explained by the restructuring of the body, and in particular, the preparation of the mammary glands for. Already on the most early dates women note that the breasts have increased in size, become more elastic and painful. This is due to the growth of glandular tissue, which occurs under the influence of the hormone prolactin.
Obviously, a woman will not succeed in avoiding changes, and such unpleasant moments will have to be endured. In order to alleviate the suffering a little, you need to pick up a new bra that is suitable in size and made from natural fabrics.
Other causes of nipple sensitivity
Not so rarely, women complain of increased sensitivity of the nipples on certain days of the menstrual cycle. Again, the changes are associated with the restructuring of the hormonal background. Most often, girls note that the nipples have become more sensitive just before menstruation. Thus, the body prepares for a possible conception in the next cycle.
Another reason for this phenomenon is an individual feature. After all, every woman on the skin of the nipples has a lot of nerve endings that are responsible for sexual arousal. However, if the nipples are very sensitive and react to the slightest touch, this may indicate a very close location of the nerve endings. Such women should carefully monitor the quality of underwear and bedding, give up tight bras and untested personal hygiene products.
When a person discovers that their nipples have become too sore or hard, they begin to wonder if these symptoms could indicate a serious health problem. The good news is that nipple pain and hardness rarely indicate cancer or other dangerous conditions.
There is nothing to worry about when nipples become irritated after certain types of physical activity, such as after sports training. This usually resolves with simple treatments that mainly include nipple rest and some behavioral changes.
In the current material, we will outline the causes of nipple pain and hardness, look at how to manage the symptoms of this condition, and point out when to see a doctor for nipple pain.
The content of the article:Causes of hardness and pain in the nipples
Sometimes hardness is the natural state of the nipples. The pain associated with hardness can in many cases be prevented or controlled. The causes of hardness and soreness of the nipples include the following.
1. Exercise and sports
Hardness of the nipples rarely indicates dangerous diseases
Physical activity can cause nipple friction and pain.
This is especially common in women who do not use a sports bra when exercising or wear a sports bra that is too loose.
This type of friction can lead to soreness, dryness, irritation, and even bleeding.
Long-distance runners, as well as surfers and many other sports, may experience similar symptoms.
2. Allergies and sensitivities
The nipples are among the most sensitive areas of the body and respond differently to stimulation. Sensitivity to weather changes and certain fabrics, including wool, can also cause irritation.
Soaps, lotions and washing powders can cause allergic reactions and itching. They can also cause the nipples to become red and cracked.
3. Sexual activity
Strong and harsh frictions during intercourse, including those that occur with oral stimulation during foreplay, can cause nipple sensitivity and soreness. Usually, this condition after sex is observed temporarily and soon disappears by itself.
4. Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding part causes problems with the nipples, in particular mastitis
Breastfeeding can cause a relatively common condition called mastitis. Symptoms include irritation and cracking of the nipples, which can cause them to become infected and inflamed. Women who develop mastitis should see a doctor for a health assessment and follow-up treatment.
Applying lanolin-based creams and ointments between feedings helps the skin retain moisture. In addition, a woman should keep her nipples clean.
5. Thrush
Pain can be the result of thrush on the nipples. This is one of the types of candidiasis - a common infection that is associated with the vital activity of the Candida albicans fungus. This condition is also common in women who are breastfeeding. Other symptoms include burning, tingling, cracking, and soreness.
During breastfeeding thrush can be passed from mother to child. In both cases, it must be treated. Babies who get thrush usually have white patches around the mouth.
6. Pregnancy
Sensitivity and soreness of the nipples is a typical condition for pregnant women. In particular, this is often observed during the first trimester, although similar symptoms may occur in the third. A well-fitting bra will help minimize friction, pain, and irritation.
7. Menstrual cycles
Soreness of the nipples tends to develop when the level rises. This usually happens about a week before the start. Pain, tenderness, and other symptoms subside as hormone levels return to normal.
8. Perimenopause and menopause
As a woman begins to pass through and, the breasts and nipples may become more tender, vulnerable and sensitive. This happens as a result of fluctuating hormone levels.
9. Birth Control
The side effects of some birth control pills are similar to the symptoms of pregnancy. They tend to go away as the body gets used to the drugs, which can take several months. If a side effects do not disappear with time, a woman should see a doctor.
10. Certain medicines and plants
Medicines prescribed to treat depression and anxiety can cause pain and other symptoms in the chest and nipples.
Certain herbal medicines, including those taken to improve production breast milk, sometimes also lead to hypersensitivity breast tissue and pain.
11. Milk duct ectasia
Milk duct ectasia is more common in women approaching menopause. This condition is not associated with breast cancer and does not increase the risk of developing it.
Milk duct ectasia is a condition in which the milk ducts become enlarged and blocked, resulting in nipple changes, tenderness, redness, pain, and a thick discharge.
Milk duct ectasia can cause mastitis or other types of breast infection. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to manage symptoms. In rare cases, blocked ducts require surgery.
12. Breast abscesses
A breast abscess is a collection of pus that may be associated with breastfeeding or mastitis. Sometimes an abscess is the result of a piercing or other skin injury that allows bacteria to enter the breast tissue.
Breast abscesses can lead to pain, localized fever, and redness and generalized fever. In the presence of an abscess, you should consult a doctor who is able to drain the formation. Doctors drain small abscesses with a needle and syringe, while large lesions often require an incision.
13. Eczema
Eczema can cause itching and pain on one or both nipples. Nipples affected by eczema often look red, flaky, and crusty. In such cases, discharge from the nipples is not excluded.
This type of eczema can be treated with hydrocortisone, but you should see a doctor before using this drug to find out accurate diagnosis. The fact is that some other conditions, including cancer, can repeat the symptoms of eczema.
14. Raynaud's phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon is common in breastfeeding mothers. However, breastfeeding does not cause this condition, which can develop in anyone.
People with Raynaud's phenomenon experience spasms of the arteries that supply blood to the nipples. Restricted blood flow causes numbness, burning, pain, and white or blue skin discoloration. When the blood flow is restored, the nipples become reddish.
15. Paget's disease
tender and too sensitive nipples may be a symptom of a rare but very dangerous disease called Paget's disease. This is one of the types of breast cancer, the proportion of which in all cases of breast cancer is from one to four percent.
The first signs of Paget's disease on the nipples are redness and crusting. Later, the following symptoms may be presented:
- tingling;
- hypersensitivity;
- pain;
- burning;
- change in the shape of the nipple;
- bloody discharge or discharge with a yellow tint.
If other areas of the breast are not affected, doctors will likely suggest surgery and radiation therapy as treatment. However, chemotherapy or other treatments may be required. It all depends on the stage that the cancer managed to reach before the diagnosis.
16. Breast Cancer
Pain in the nipples rarely indicates breast cancer, but sometimes this symptom, along with some others, can signal the presence of malignant tumors in the mammary glands.
Pain, redness, peeling, thickening and discharge from the nipples are possible symptoms of breast cancer.
Painful and hard nipples in men
Irritation can be the result of nipples rubbing against sportswear
Not only women, but also men experience pain in the nipples. The latter more often find this symptom as a result of injuries, which, as a rule, become the result of sports activities. Irritated nipples in men sometimes result from contact with clothing during exercise. In addition, men can also develop mastitis.
The risk of breast cancer in men is much lower than in women. However, the condition also develops, and its symptoms may include the following:
- redness;
- peeling of the skin;
- retraction of the nipples.
It is important for men to have regular check-ups with a doctor and maintain a healthy lifestyle, especially in cases where there is an increased risk of developing this form of cancer. One risk factor is a family history of cancer.
Treatment
Many home treatments can be used to relieve nipple tenderness and soreness. These methods include:
- massage;
- cold tea bags;
- warm compresses;
- humidifiers.
Cold tea bags can ease nipple pain
There is no evidence that the strategies listed are helpful, but some of them may provide symptomatic relief. If something unusual happens to a person's nipples, then it is better for him to go to the doctor to determine the cause and subsequent treatment.
If symptoms appear after sports training, then they can be combated with special products that protect the skin of athletes. It must be applied before each workout to reduce friction.
If symptoms appear after using new skin care products, including shampoo, then the use of this product should be suspended and see if relief occurs.
When is it necessary to see a doctor?
While pain and other nipple problems can cause discomfort, they rarely indicate cancer.
They usually go away on their own or disappear with little therapeutic effort. However, if a person encounters symptoms that are unusual for him, it is better for him to tell his doctor about them.
Important! Women and men who are at high risk of developing breast cancer should definitely consult a doctor if they have nipple pain, especially if pain attacks are accompanied by discharge.Despite the fact that it is the 21st century on the street and many issues have long been discussed openly and without hesitation, there are still some nuances that we still talk about in a whisper.
Often we turn to the Internet community for help, wanting to satisfy interest and remain incognito at the same time. Among such intimate questions, one can meet a desire to know more about why nipples stand and how this happens.
Simplicity of physiology: how does a nipple erection occur?
Each of us visually imagines the chest very well. At the same time, clearly delineating and defining: this is the male breast, and this is the female. But not everyone knows that there are many nerve endings in the chest that are located around muscle structures.
External stimuli provoke the contraction of these muscle fibers, which ultimately leads to erection of the nipples.
So, for example, speaking of physical arousal, the mechanism of "rising nipples" can be described approximately as follows:
- Touching causes irritation of nerve endings.
- In the process, a nerve impulse is formed, which is sent to the brain.
- After its processing by the brain, there is an increase in blood flow to the mammary glands, including - and to the nipples.
- As a result, the nipples harden and “get up”.
If breast changes occur from cold, then the essence of rising nipples in this case comes down to spasms of muscle fibers that form goosebumps on the skin: while the muscles contract, and there is a change in shape, and sometimes even the color of the nipple, as well as the skin around it.
When is nipple erection a normal reflex?
So, you ask: is hardening of the nipples always normal? And what is the “norm” in this case, and what is the deviation from it?
The answers to these and other questions are contained in the reasons for the rising of the nipples and, oddly enough, in the frequency of repetition of such a reaction. At the same time, one should be especially attentive to the fact that the “female” reasons are somewhat different from the “male” ones.
What can cause nipples erection in women?
Causes of rising nipples in women include:
Temperature changes
Many have probably noticed that due to a decrease in air or water temperature, women's nipples become sensitive and stick out - this is a standard reaction to cold. However, this effect does not give a gradual decrease in temperature, but its sharp changes, in most cases unpleasant, uncomfortable for the female body.
sex drive
Expectation of sex, foreplay/preparation for sexual intercourse, sex itself is the most common cause of hardening of the nipples, and one of the main signs (indicator) of arousal in women, often confirming the pleasure of the process. Most often it occurs as a reaction to stroking, touching.
Pregnancy period
During pregnancy, the breast, in general, changes. Naturally, both the nipples and the areola change. Nipples may increase in size, become coarse, their sensitivity increases.
In some cases, pain is possible in the entire chest, or in separate parts, including the nipples. Do not worry about this - most often this is a normal physiological reaction to the changes taking place in the body. But, if you notice that the pain is getting worse, then you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Premenstrual syndrome
Nipple sensitivity may be one of the PMS symptoms. Before the start of a new menstrual cycle (on the eve of critical days), in many women, the breasts seem to swell, gain weight, they note an increase in the sensitivity of the nipples, and that they can periodically get up.
As with pregnancy, you should not rush to the hospital at the slightest change. But if the sensitivity of the nipples is accompanied by pain that remains even after menstruation, then you should not delay visiting a specialist. Remember, at the time of diagnosis will ensure timely treatment of the mammary glands.
Wrong underwear
If the bra size is larger than the girl needs, the nipples can rub against it. inner surface, harden, coarsen and "get up".
Spontaneous nipple erection
This happens rarely and not in all women. This reaction is not connected either with thoughts, or with feelings, and with their sensations. Usually does not last long, but at the same time it can have a recurrence during the day.
Psychological state/nervous excitement/tension
Individual characteristics of the nervous system can sometimes find expression in the fact that the female breast hardens, and the nipples "get up."
What causes hardening of the nipples in men?
The reasons for the rising of male nipples can be described as follows:
Excitation
Here, the hardening of the nipples in men converges with the female reaction to sex. Sometimes the nipples can be one of the strongest erogenous zones men, although this is considered a rarity and is not found in everyone.
Puberty
Nipples may harden due to hormonal changes. As you know, the reactions of the body of a teenager during puberty are unstable, therefore, an erection of the nipples can occur completely arbitrarily for a couple of minutes, or for a longer time.
Intoxication
When the alcohol in the blood is exceeded in men, the nipples often stick out, but the areolas decrease in size.
Temperature changes
Erection of the nipples can occur from the cold: be a reaction to interaction with ice, cold water and cold objects.
Diseases
In some cases, “raised” nipples in a man indicate the presence of viruses in the body or are the result of an inflammatory process in the body. During self-examination, it is necessary to pay attention to whether there are discharges from the chest, especially purulent ones.
If they are available, it is necessary to make an appointment with a doctor, and as soon as possible, without postponing the visit "on the back burner".
In what cases should you urgently visit a doctor?
Having studied the reasons for the rising of the nipples, we can say that almost all of them are normal and harmless. You should not panic, get upset or shy if your nipples get up - this is physiology. But still, there are cases when you need to pay close attention to your body.
We have already mentioned the discharge from the nipples above - if they are, then you should consult a doctor immediately. In addition, evidence of ill health is itching in the nipples, redness, or other changes that are noticeable during self-examination.
It is advisable to describe such deviations by contacting a specialist for help and advice.
Remember that with regard to health, it is better to play it safe and exclude the disease than to ignore a symptom that is insignificant at first glance and start the disease.
Video: what should healthy nipples look like?
The female body is very mysterious and includes many processes that are directly dependent on the hormonal background. This also affects the sensitivity of the nipples. But what else can cause their increased susceptibility, what are the causes of this phenomenon and whether it is associated with pathologies.
What is nipple sensitivity
Nipples are permeated with various receptors and endings that respond to touch and all kinds of stimuli. Most women may not feel anything when they are lightly stroked, but for some, any contact with external factors provokes a reaction. What can it depend on and why do the nipples suddenly become overly sensitive? Reasons why this might happen:
- During PMS.
- During the period itself.
- Pregnancy.
- During breastfeeding.
It is then that the mammary glands and nipples begin to swell due to the excess rush of blood plasma. That is why the sensitivity of the nipples and breasts increases.
Pregnancy
Sensitive nipples are common during pregnancy. Statistics claim that 80% of the manifestation of excessive susceptibility of this zone in women occurs even at very early stages, since the hormonal background begins to experience tremendous changes. They become such in order to protect the reproductive organ from interrupting the development of the child, since oxytocin is produced when the breast is stimulated. This hormone is responsible for uterine contractions. When this area becomes sensitive and it hurts to touch the nipples, the woman should avoid stimulation of the mammary glands, which favorably affects the course of pregnancy, especially when she is in the early stages.
Naturally, it will not be possible to avoid such changes, so this discomfort will have to be endured. To alleviate this factor, you can change the bra, which will fit the existing breast size, and be made from natural fabrics.
The susceptibility of the nipples is increased due to the breastfeeding of the child. At this moment, they not only react to touch, but also hurt a lot. The reasons for this are the incorrect position of the child or mother, simultaneous bottle feeding and breastfeeding forms improper sucking. Also, pain can occur due to untimely replacement of the chest lining. This increases the moisture of the skin on the nipples, from which they become unnecessarily soft. Pain can be provoked by the inept termination of the feeding process and the separation of the child from the mother's breast.
These symptoms can cause dry, sore, or irritated nipples. Also, do not forget about uncomfortable underwear. At the time of breastfeeding, it is better to give preference to natural materials that were used during pregnancy.
PMS
Women's nipples become very sensitive before menstruation. Why is this happening? In the second phase of the cycle, when ovulation has already passed, progesterone begins to be actively produced. Such a hormone allows the endometrium to thicken to the required thickness and save the fetus. This substance reaches its peak 7 days after the start of the second phase. Then women begin to notice that the nipples have become much more sensitive, and the breasts have increased slightly. Such reasons are often confused with the symptoms of pregnancy, but over time everything falls into place.
Ovulation
If the nipples suddenly become sensitive, then this may indicate the onset of ovulation, when the egg leaves the ovary. The reasons lie also in hormones. In the first phases, the presence of estrogen dominates more. It allows the follicle to grow, and affects the endometrium. At such a time, the female breast is the softest and most relaxed, and when the middle of the cycle is approaching, the body feels the beginning of reshaping. A latinizing hormone is released, which affects the rupture of the follicle and the rejection of the egg. At the same time, this substance affects the woman's breasts. That is why she becomes more aroused and her nipples and areolas are very receptive.
Important! This factor occurs only in the middle of the cycle, so it cannot be confused with pregnancy or PMS.
The presence of pathologies
Nipple sensitivity increases when female body with some pathological processes. Often this symptom occurs when the patient suffers from hormonal ailments:
- Myoma of the uterus.
- Polycystic etc.
Also, the fact that the nipples have become more susceptible can be affected by the presence of neoplasms in the mammary glands. Along with this, there is an increase or deformation of the shape of the breast, and painful sensations do not give rest for a long period and each time become more acute.
Mastopathy and other diseases of the mammary glands can cause sensitivity in this area. Such pathologies do not pose a particular threat to the health and life of a woman, but require immediate specialized intervention. Since without adequate timely treatment, they can develop into tumors or acquire other complicated forms.
Individual predispositions
The sensitivity of the nipples can be explained by the individual characteristics of the human body and the skin. Causes of manifestation occur during puberty and are present on an ongoing basis. It is worth noting that there are very few such women, but at the same time they work and live normally, since the susceptibility of this area does not bring them discomfort.
Conclusion
When pain and sensitivity last for a long time, it is necessary to consult a specialist and undergo diagnostic manipulations in order to exclude the presence of diseases. If it is related to hormones, then the doctor will prescribe medications and a special diet. Also, one should not forget about the psychological aspect: negative emotions, stressful situations, conflicts that arise in an intimate way, etc.
If there is a need to take oral contraceptives, then before using them, you need to consult a doctor who will advise the appropriate drug. You should also properly care for the skin of the breast and nipples, using hypoallergenic products and gels for intimate hygiene.
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