What does tender nipples mean

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. There are many causes of nipple pain, some as simple as an allergy to laundry detergent or a bra that does not fit right. Nipple pain is also a common occurrence in menstruating, pregnant, or breast-feeding women. There are more serious causes of nipple pain, such as infections and cancer , so seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment is important.

As a symptom, nipple pain differs from person to person. Some may feel their nipples are sore and tender, while others feel sharp pain or pain accompanied by itching. Friction is the most common reason for the nipples to be sore. Friction can occur if the nipples rub against a shirt or poorly-fitting bra, during sports activities, such as running, surfing, or basketball.

Friction on the nipple can often cause soreness and a stinging pain. The skin may also become dry or chapped. Furthermore, longer periods of exercise mean extended periods of friction, too. People who are sensitive to friction may choose to take extra precautions, such as wearing surgical tape on their nipples during exercise.

Nipples that have already been injured by friction, an allergic reaction, or are cracked or bleeding have a higher risk of infection. Lactation and breast-feeding may also increase the risk of infection. It is possible to get a yeast infection of the nipples, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans.

This can be the result of damage to the surrounding tissue, recent antibiotic use, or when a person has a history of fungal infections. A yeast infection, also known as thrush, at the nipples is often felt as a burning, stinging pain that does not go away by reducing sources of friction. The nipples may be bright pink and the areola may be reddish or flaky. Many breast-feeding women describe thrush as sharp, hot pain immediately after the feed. Signs of the infection may also appear on their baby.

Mastitis is possible during pregnancy if milk becomes trapped in one of the milk ducts. Frequent urination. Hormone replacement treatment. Breast Tissue Inflammation We refer to breast tissue inflammation as mastitis, and it is very common in women who are breastfeeding. It usually affects one breast and cause: Burning pain that happens during breastfeeding. A white nipple discharge. Swelling or pain. A lump in the breast. If you have thrush, you may have: Cracked nipples. A blister-like rash on the nipples Shooting pains during or after breastfeeding Flaky nipples.

Breast Cancer Even though breast pain is not a symptom of cancer, it can sometimes cause pain. You should also see a doctor if you have any of the following cancer symptoms: A lump in the breast or in the armpit Nipple discharge. Nipple pain. Breast swelling. Flaky skin. At Breast Care Center Miami, we also recommend our patients to do the following: Massaging the area around the milk ducts Applying a warm compress Allowing your nipples to air dry and using breathable cotton pads Changing positions every time you breastfeed Reason 5: You Have a Cyst You may have breast cysts , which are round and oval lumps, and these can develop in one or both breasts.

Like any part of your body, breasts can be injured. This can happen because of an accident, while playing sports or from breast surgery. You may feel a sharp, shooting pain at the time of injury. Tenderness can linger for a few days up to several weeks after trauma to the breast. Without proper support, the ligaments that connect breasts to the chest wall can become overstretched and painful by the end of the day.

The result is achy, sore breasts. This may be especially noticeable during exercise. Make sure your bra is the correct size and provides good support. What feels like breast pain may actually be coming from your chest wall. This is the area of muscle, tissue and bone that surrounds and protects your heart and lungs. Common causes of chest wall pain include:. Breastfeeding can sometimes be the source of breast pain. Sore nipples are common in breastfeeding women. Here are 13 ways to prevent and manage sore nipples while breastfeeding, plus signs that you may need….

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Causes Treatment Diagnosis In breastfeeding Prevention Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. Overview There are many possible causes of sore nipples. Read on to learn about causes of nipple pain and what you can do to manage this symptom.

Causes of sore nipples.