From the moment the egg is fertilized and implanted in the uterine cavity, hormonal changes begin in the woman’s body, which will help maintain pregnancy and its successful development. Previously released hormones change their concentration (progesterone and estrogen are produced more actively), which is expressed in different manifestations. The breasts are one of the first to react to hormonal changes. Very often, it is the nipples that prompt a woman to think about the possibility of conception.
The breast begins to react to pregnancy from 10-14 days after conception, that is, virtually immediately after implantation of the egg. Moreover, both the breasts in general and the nipples in particular change. And this process lasts throughout the entire period of bearing the baby.
How nipples change during pregnancy:
- increased sensitivity of the nipples during pregnancy
One of the most important is increasing the sensitivity of the nipples. This feeling begins to simply irritate the woman: any touch to the nipple causes not only discomfort, but also infuriates her. Meanwhile, many women’s nipples become hypersensitive before each period, so often at this stage they still have no idea about anything, regarding this symptom as a manifestation of premenstrual syndrome.
But when you are already aware that you are pregnant, and your nipples hurt when pressed or touched, then it is better to immediately change your bra to the simplest and most comfortable one. The cup should be perfectly even and smooth - without seams or decorative elements that irritate the nipples. Some doctors recommend placing pieces of coarse fabric in the cups, which will prepare the breasts for future feeding, and at the same time reduce their sensitivity and soreness.
Air baths will also have a beneficial effect on the chest and reduce soreness. Yes, and my husband will be pleased, to say the least. By the way, it’s not for nothing that nipples become hypersensitive: this is how they protect the breasts from now unnecessary stimulation, which can lead to the release of the hormone oxytocin, which causes uterine contractions.
- swelling of the nipples during pregnancy
Throughout pregnancy, the breasts noticeably increase in size and become 2-3 times heavier. Naturally, the nipples swell along with it. All this happens due to the activity of hormones. The nipple enlarges, becomes more elongated and prominent. Many women are upset by such changes, but men really like it.
- darkening of nipples during pregnancy
That's when you can really suspect that you are pregnant, this is when pigmentation begins to intensify. The first signs of pregnancy include darkening of the nipples and areolas. This does not happen to all women, but often the nipples become noticeably darker and even change color completely.
By the way, similar changes may affect. But nipples are, of course, easier to notice.
- Montgomery tubercles during pregnancy
Often, from the first weeks of pregnancy, a woman notices the appearance of small pimples around her nipples. These are the Montgomery tubercles, which are more correctly called glands. They are present in the areolas of every woman’s nipples, but become especially noticeable during pregnancy and during breastfeeding.
The number of Montgomery glands can be very different - from a few pieces to multiple points around the nipple. But most often during pregnancy there are about 12 of them on each nipple. It is believed that the more tubercles, the more milk a woman will have.
Montgomery's tubercles are vestigial glands. It is not at all necessary that they manifest themselves during pregnancy, although it happens that they appear from the first days. In most cases, these glands hide after breastfeeding stops, although they often remain on the nipples. Don't worry about this - there's nothing wrong with it.
- secretion of colostrum during pregnancy
Already from the second trimester, a pregnant woman may notice the release of colostrum from the nipples (clear, whitish or yellowish liquid), although most often this occurs closer to childbirth, in the third trimester. Hormones are again to blame for this, as they prepare the breasts for early feeding.
If you notice droplets on your nipples, then under no circumstances squeeze it out of your breasts. Just pat dry carefully and be sure to maintain good hygiene - shower twice a day. If the need arises, you can use chest pads. By the way, it is very useful to lubricate the nipples with a drop of colostrum - this prevents them from drying out and prevents the formation of cracks during feeding.
Nipple stimulation during pregnancy
And the last thing that cannot be ignored is nipple stimulation during pregnancy. Be extremely careful with this. Men really like the rounded shapes of their pregnant beloved wives. It’s simply a sin to leave such breasts unattended, but this may turn out to be unsafe. Stimulation of the nipples during pregnancy tones the uterus, which can provoke the threat of miscarriage or. At or on later something so natural can even be useful. But while the time for childbirth has not yet come, it is better not to take risks and not touch the nipples again.
It should be said that the described changes in the breasts and nipples will not necessarily manifest themselves. In some women, the breasts do not change at all until the birth itself, and only during the arrival of milk they begin to swell and harden. Do not worry if breast changes did not affect you during pregnancy - this is also normal. Each woman is individual, and her pregnancy proceeds differently from another.
Especially for- Elena Kichak
The most sensitive part of a woman's body is the mammary glands. There is often a feeling of discomfort in this area. It’s worth talking in more detail about why nipples get hard.
Obvious reasons
Specialists in the field of gynecology identify several reasons why women's nipples become hard:
- Due to prolonged stress. As you know, a huge number of nerve endings are concentrated in the chest. If a young mother is nervous for a long time, then her milk disappears. Other women's nipples begin to harden.
- Change hormonal levels.
- Viral disease. In many females, when body temperature rises, the mammary glands may change.
- Strong excitement.
- Nipples can shrink and harden from any tactile touch.
Gynecologists claim that the most common cause of this symptom is the early stage of pregnancy.
Breast response to stimulation
As mentioned earlier, there are several reasons why female nipples become hard. It is worth taking a closer look at each of them.
Every body reacts differently to sexual intercourse. The mammary glands can change in some due to strong, in others due to mild excitement. And for some representatives of the fair sex they remain in the same state.
Why do nipples get hard when aroused? This is due to the intense production of endorphins - joy hormones. If a man sees that his partner’s areolas have shrunk, that the skin has acquired a rough outline, then he can be sure that he is doing everything right.
Emotional factor or illness
A less common reason why nipples become hard is stress. This change occurs in approximately three percent of women. The human body can be sensitive to worries and experiences. This leads to hormonal imbalance, and subsequently to changes in the menstrual cycle and changes appearance nipples
Any disease is also a great stress for the body. Many young mothers have weakened immune systems during lactation. As the body temperature rises, some of them experience stagnation of milk and begin to harden, swell and turn red.
First sign of pregnancy
It is inherent in nature that a woman’s body is designed to create new life. As soon as the egg is fertilized, he begins to prepare for bearing the fetus. Many symptoms can notify the expectant mother of her interesting situation faster than experienced specialists or modern diagnostic equipment can do.
An obvious symptom is a change in the appearance of the nipples. They become darker, harden and swell. Often there is a feeling of discomfort and mild pain in this area. A woman may feel that her bust has even become one size larger.
What is this connected with? The body naturally prepares for postpartum lactation. Accordingly, an expansion of the mammary duct is formed. In 70 percent of women this occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy, in 25 percent in the second and third, the remaining 5 percent do not feel any changes during pregnancy.
Effect on tactile contact or individual characteristic
Many women are interested in why their nipples get hard even from a light touch. The skin in this area becomes wrinkled and rough. This protective reaction is an individual feature of the body. Some ladies experience a similar symptom:
- Due to temperature fluctuations. For example, if a woman, after a hot bath, dives into an ice hole; will go out of the house into the cold street in light clothing. Any sudden change in temperature leads to similar changes.
- Due to physical activity. About 2 percent of women experience muscle spasms during exercise. The condition of the halos will recover on its own, 10-15 minutes after a grueling workout.
- In almost 70 percent of women, nipples become hard and sore due to changes in hormonal levels in the body. This often occurs before menstruation or ovulation.
There is also a less common feature of the body when the breasts always have a compacted structure with hard nipples. Women live with this throughout their lives, and it does not bother them at all.
Wrong choice
Why do nipples often get hard and hurt? Surprisingly, this symptom can also be associated with allergies. For example, if a female representative wears clothes made of poor quality material. Some ladies like to wear a bra one or two sizes smaller than the original one to make their dignity even more expressive. Because of this, a similar illness may also appear.
There's no reason to worry
As it has already turned out, there are a number of reasons why women's nipples become hard. This phenomenon is absolutely normal if:
- The pain is moderate. Has the same character throughout the day. Doesn't get worse over time.
- There are no additional symptoms.
- The pain is present for no more than three days.
- No swelling.
- No redness.
The absolute norm is this symptom during pregnancy, ovulation, lactation and before the menstrual cycle. In all of the above cases, specialist help is not required. Mild discomfort can be relieved by massaging the area with smooth movements and taking a warm shower.
Need specialist help
Sometimes hard nipples can be the primary symptom of a serious illness. You should seek the help of a specialist if the following symptoms appear:
- If the discomfort constantly gets worse. Subsequently, it is expressed by acute, barely bearable pain.
- When additional characteristic signs appear: fever, redness, erosion, swelling.
- With simultaneous pain in other areas of the body.
- If there is any discharge from the nipples. The exception is lactation or pregnancy.
- When a lump is detected in the chest area.
You should be wary if the above symptoms appear simultaneously with hardening of your nipples. They can be a harbinger of a serious illness, ranging from mastitis to cancer. You need to do the following:
- Come for a consultation with a therapist, mammologist or gynecologist.
- Pass a number of standard tests: urine, feces, clinical blood test.
- Perform an ultrasound examination (ultrasound).
- Get a mammogram.
- If necessary, an additional biopsy is prescribed to detect cancer cells.
A number of studies will eliminate the risk of developing a serious disease in the early stages.
What about men?
The question of why nipples get hard worries women more. This does not mean that men do not encounter similar phenomena. They may experience a similar symptom in the following cases:
- With strong excitement.
- While intoxicated.
- This often occurs in adolescents during puberty.
This symptom, just like in women, can be a harbinger of a serious illness.
Conclusion
There are a huge number of both harmless and serious reasons why nipples become hard. Listen to your body. Assess the nature of the pain. Analyze your condition for additional symptoms. All this will allow you to determine whether such a symptom is normal or whether it’s time to contact a specialist.
Women's breasts are the object of increased attention of all men without exception and a source of pride for women themselves. However, few people know five surprising facts that will help you take a fresh look at women's nipples. We know little about this seductive part of the breast.
Basically, this is their sensitivity to foreplay, as well as its direct purpose - feeding newborn children. The information will be useful and interesting for both women and men.
We will truly surprise you with the facts we offer and even help you accept some of the features of this part of the body!
Color and size of female nipples: what are the norms
Nipples can come in different shapes, sizes and colors. They are small and large, soft 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 normal and they aren't a sign of some illness.
It is worth knowing that the skin of the areola has red and brown pigments. The predominance of one of them determines the color of the skin in this area. By the way, during pregnancy the areola tends to darken - and this is also a normal phenomenon.
Women's nipples can have different shapes and colors. Shades from light pink to dark brown are normal.
How does piercing and tattooing of female nipples affect sensitivity?
Female nipples and piercings are a rather debated topic. And opinions in this case are radically divided: half of women and men say “yes” to such breast decoration, and the other half say a categorical “no”. And the last opinion is based on the fact that after a puncture the sensitivity of the nipples supposedly decreases. Yes, and there is a risk of infection.
Let's say right away that piercing does not reduce the sensitivity of the nipples. Often it’s the other way around: it only gets stronger. As for infections, it all depends on whether the technician maintains hygiene in the workplace.
An interesting procedure is nipple tattooing - it helps to correct the shape and also make the color contrast with the skin tone.
Female nipples and piercings are completely compatible concepts. It is only important to choose a qualified craftsman who will maintain 100% hygiene of the workplace and tools. 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 - it is 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 there are several solutions to this cosmetic problem:
Careful cutting with nail scissors;
. laser hair removal in a cosmetic clinic.
You cannot pluck hairs with tweezers - they can grow darker and thicker, and grow under the skin.
A little hair on and around the nipples is normal. If they are noticeable only to you upon closer inspection, then you don’t need to do anything about them. However, if they darken or their number increases, consult a doctor, this may be a problem with hormones.
Women have more than two nipples - sometimes it happens
Sometimes people are born with several nipples on their body. This is a kind of “reverse evolution” - an echo of the times when our monkey ancestors had several nipples for feeding their young. In medicine, this phenomenon is called “additional nipples.” And they are located on the body by themselves - breast they will not develop. For some people, they look like moles - nothing more.
It is worth noting that such famous people as Lily Allen, Tilda Swinton and Carrie Underwood were born with three nipples. Of these three, only Carrie Underwood had an extra nipple removed. 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 normal options. Therefore, there is no need to remove it or fear that a third breast will grow out of it. But if you have complexes about this, contact a qualified surgeon.
Inverted female nipples - norm and pathology
Some women's nipples have an inverted shape - that is, they seem to point inward to the breast. And this is also normal. There is no need to fear that this is a sign of illness and run to the doctor. Although it’s worth turning to it, because the only real drawback of this form is possible problems With feeding the baby .
Otherwise, inverted nipples do not pose any danger. The exception is if they previously had a “normal” shape, and then suddenly changed it. In this case, be sure to consult a female doctor - this is a dangerous factor and may indicate oncology.
Inverted female nipples are one of the normal variants. The only problem with them is that they can interfere with the baby's feeding. Therefore, when planning a pregnancy, it is better to consult a doctor for additional examination.
Female nipples can be of different shapes and colors, small hairs grow on them, and there may also be not two, but three. All this makes each representative of the fair sex unique and inimitable. You should not think that there is some ideal shape or color, breast size and nipples themselves.
Nature intended diversity, so you shouldn’t be ashamed of your breasts just because they don’t look like the ones that a popular film actress or singer proudly “wears.”
Moreover, even famous people are not perfect - remember, for example, Lily Allen, who has three instead of two nipples. And she considers the “extra” nipple to be her highlight and is not going to remove it! Your breasts are definitely a reason to love yourself as you are.
You may be interested in: How to work with the shortcomings of your appearance.
Most often, increased nipple sensitivity is associated with changes during pregnancy. This is one of the very first symptoms indicating successful fertilization. Of course, you can’t call this feeling pleasant, because it causes discomfort and irritation.
What causes increased nipple sensitivity during pregnancy?
Not yet realizing their interesting situation, expectant mothers are perplexed as to why their nipples have become very sensitive. This phenomenon can be attributed to another wisdom of nature, which foresaw everything down to the smallest detail and created necessary conditions for the growth and development of new life. The fact is that the increased sensitivity of the nipples in the event of pregnancy serves the function of protecting the breasts from stimulation. Which can cause uterine contractions and 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 at the most early stages women note that their breasts have increased in size, become firmer and more painful. This is due to the proliferation of glandular tissue, which occurs under the influence of the hormone prolactin.
Obviously, a woman will not be able to avoid changes, and such unpleasant moments will have to be endured. In order to alleviate the suffering at least a little, you need to choose a new bra that is suitable in size and made from natural fabrics.
Other causes of nipple sensitivity
It is not so rare for women to complain about increased sensitivity nipples on certain days of the menstrual cycle. Again, the changes are associated with hormonal changes. Most often, girls note that their nipples become more sensitive immediately before menstruation. In this way, the body prepares for a possible conception in the next cycle.
Another reason for this phenomenon is individual characteristics. After all, every woman has many nerve endings on the skin of her nipples that are responsible for sexual arousal. However, if the nipples are very sensitive and react to the slightest touch, this may indicate that the nerve endings are very close. Such women should carefully monitor the quality of their underwear and bed linen, and avoid tight bras and untested personal hygiene products.
So, if you notice that...
BREASTS INCREASE
1. You are gaining weight
After puberty, breasts grow as the rest of the body grows. Why does my weight increase? You may eat more, exercise less, sleep little, or live under stress. Plus or minus a kilogram is natural. If you gain more weight, your risk of getting cancer increases.
2. You are expecting your period, have started taking oral contraceptives or are pregnant
Hormones affect breast size. If both breasts are enlarged, there is nothing to worry about.
BREASTS ARE SMALLER
3. You are losing weight
Breasts are made up of fat, so if you're losing weight, they'll be the first body part you notice. If your weight and breasts are decreasing for no apparent reason, you should see a doctor. After all, it could be hyperthyroidism or another disease.
4. New menstrual cycle
If the breasts increase before menstruation, it means that after it the swelling will go away and they will decrease. There is no reason to worry.
ONE BREAST IS BIGGER THAN THE OTHER
5. Nothing special
Breasts are not symmetrical, so if they have always been different sizes and shapes, that's okay.
6. Breast cancer
If the shape of one breast is changing, it's time to get checked for breast cancer.
IRRITATION TO THE SKIN UNDER THE BREASTS
7. Allergies
This happens when your bra wires are made of nickel, the soap didn't wash off after swimming, or you wore a sweater that irritates your skin. Hydrocortisone ointment will help you. If the irritation does not go away after a few days, see a doctor.
8. Intertriginous dermatitis
Or diaper rash. Very often in summer the skin under the breasts becomes chafed and inflamed. An antibiotic, steroid or hydrocortisone ointment will relieve the irritation, and a properly fitted bra will support your breasts and prevent recurrence.
9. The linen is no longer fresh.
Rare washing actually preserves the laundry, but bacteria or fungi can settle in it. The skin under the breasts sweats a lot and this is very beneficial for them.
YOU HAVE NOTICEABLE STRETCH MARKS
10. Your weight is fluctuating.
As your weight fluctuates, your breasts grow and shrink. This causes stretch marks. This often happens after pregnancy and in women with thin, inelastic skin.
VERY DARK OR LIGHT NIPPLES
11. Nothing special
No, it's not cancer. Each woman's nipples are colored differently. The main thing is that it is symmetrical.
VERY LARGE OR SMALL NIPPLES
12. Nothing special
Our bodies are simply different. If they are symmetrical, there is no problem.
BUBBLES ON AREOLAS
13. Nothing special
Breasts are intended for feeding babies. These tubercles are the exits of the milk ducts. Sometimes they get a little bigger, so if there are small bumps surrounding your nipple, you're fine.
ONE LARGE BUMPLE ON THE AREOLA
14. Benign cyst or malignant neoplasm
Get tested as soon as possible to find out if there is any cause for concern.
HAIR AROUND THE NIPPLE
15. Polycystic ovary syndrome
If you have started to grow hair around your nipple, your testosterone levels may have increased due to PCOS. Other symptoms include acne and irregular menstruation. Polycystic disease can lead to infertility, so you should see a doctor.
NIPPLES ITCH
16. Shampoo or soap residue irritates the skin.
Rinse your skin with water and apply hydrocortisone ointment.
17. Allergy to clothes
This could be a reaction to the dye in a new bra or wool sweater. Apply hydrocortisone ointment to your nipples and change your clothes.
18. A new cycle will begin soon
Sometimes hormonal changes cause itching.
19. Paget's disease
Or breast cancer, a very rare disease. Its symptoms are itchy nipples and areolas, flaky skin, a flattened nipple and yellow or spotting from the nipple. See a doctor immediately.
PAIN AND LAMPS IN THE CHEST
20. A new cycle will begin soon
Depending on the phase of the cycle, the structure and sensitivity of the breast may change. You should see a doctor. One consolation is that if you have bumps but no pain, then most likely it is not a tumor.
21. Too much caffeine
Caffeine causes chest pain for some people, so just start drinking less coffee, tea and soda and the problem will go away.
WHITE CLOUDY DISCHARGE FROM NIPPLES
22. Something stimulates milk production
Breasts are needed to feed babies. If the discharge looks like milk, something may be stimulating your milk production, even if you are not pregnant or caring for a small baby. The doctor will choose a medicine for you.
23. Side effect antidepressants or antipsychotics
Some medications increase levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production. In most cases, this is done safely, although it is unpleasant.
OTHER DISCHARGES FROM THE NIPLE
24. Benign neoplasm
Known as papilloma. You should see a doctor.
NIPPLES HARD
25. You're excited
If your nipples are symmetrical but firm, there is nothing to worry about. The muscles around the nipple simply contracted. This is usually related to sex.
26. You're cold
If it's not about sex, then the simplest explanation is cold. Just stay warm.
Inverted Nipple OR Dimples in the Nipple or BREAST
27. Breast cancer
Any dents could be a sign of cancer. You should see a doctor URGENTLY.
LAMP IN THE CHEST
28. Everything is fine with you
Now it’s just another phase of the cycle when the breasts become denser. This is fine. Breast lumps that could mean something serious can only be detected with a mammogram.
VEINS VISIBLE THROUGH THE SKIN
29. Risk of skin cancer
Fair skin is usually pale and translucent. If so, you are at high risk of sunburn, but as long as you don't overextend yourself and use sunscreen, there won't be any serious problems.
BREASTS LOOK LIKE ORANGES
30. Breast cancer
If your smooth breasts suddenly become uneven like an orange peel, and your areolas and nipples become hard, it may be cancer. You should see a doctor URGENTLY.
BUNE ON THE CHEST
31. Benign cyst
If it is round and smooth and you can move it, it may be a benign cyst filled with fluid. It's not a tumor. You should see a doctor.
32. Breast cancer
Most often, pain and growths in the chest are the result of hormones. Every time you encounter them, the question arises: is it cancer or could it become cancer? Only the doctor will answer.
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