What are the most common causes of nipple pain?

Women will experience breast pain for at least a few days every month, which affects their daily lives. In fact, there are many reasons for nipple pain. It may be caused by ill-fitting clothes rubbing against the breasts in daily life, it may be caused by nipple damage and infection, or it may be caused by sexual contact, etc. These are all causes of nipple pain. So what is the most common cause of nipple pain? Let’s find out!

1. Eight causes of nipple pain

1. Friction

Friction is a common cause of nipple pain. During athletic activities, such as running, surfing, or basketball, nipples may rub against clothing or an ill-fitting bra, which can cause discomfort. Friction can cause pain and irritation, and the skin can become dry or cracked. People who are sensitive to friction can take preventive measures, such as wearing surgical tape on their nipples during exercise to prevent excessive friction.

2. Infection

Nipples that are damaged by friction, allergic reactions, or that are cracked or bleed due to trauma are at higher risk of infection. Breastfeeding and breastfeeding may also increase the risk of infection.

It could also be a yeast infection. A fungal infection of the nipples caused by Candida albicans is a stinging sensation with a burning sensation that does not go away with less friction. Many breastfeeding women who are infected experience stinging pain in their breasts accompanied by a burning sensation immediately after feeding, and their babies may also become infected.

During pregnancy, mastitis can occur if breast milk becomes blocked in the milk ducts. Bacteria can grow and spread in the milk ducts. This type of infection can cause swelling, redness, and pain in the breast and nipple. Antibiotics are needed to treat mastitis, and if it is not treated promptly, an abscess will form.

Any woman who has the following symptoms, along with nipple and breast pain, should see a doctor:

1). Fever and chills

2). The breasts feel hot when touched

3). Redness of the skin of the breast and nipple

4). Irregular breast swelling

3). Allergies or allergic dermatitis

Flaky, crusty, or blistered skin that is accompanied by pain and irritation may indicate an allergic reaction or atopic dermatitis (eczema). Other symptoms of an allergic reaction include redness or cracking of the skin around the nipple and areola, and persistent itching. Topical anti-inflammatory creams can treat mild dermatitis reactions, but if the rash or redness increases, spreads, and does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, you should see a doctor.

3. Sexual contact

Sexual activity can be another cause of nipple pain. Physical friction or sexual activity involving the nipples can cause pain, which is generally temporary and eases with time. Using a moisturizer or nipple protector can keep friction to a minimum and prevent symptoms from worsening.

4. Hormone changes

Normal hormonal changes during a woman's menstrual cycle can also trigger nipple and breast pain. These symptoms are usually felt a few days before the start of menstruation. The increase in estrogen and progesterone levels brings more fluid to the breasts, making them feel swollen and painful. 5. Cancer and Paget's disease (inflammation of the areola and nipple)

Some nipple pain and other symptoms can be a sign of a problem such as cancer, although tumors don't usually cause pain, and when they do, it's usually unilateral. Paget's disease is a rare cancer. People with Paget's disease and breast cancer may experience symptoms, including:

1). Flat or inverted nipples

2). Yellow or bloody discharge from the nipple

3). Itching or tingling sensation in the nipples and breasts

4). The skin around the nipple and areola becomes red, flaky, hard, or rough.

Both diseases are diagnosed by pathological examination of the affected cells. Anyone who is unsure of their symptoms should seek medical help.

5. Nipple pain during pregnancy

Nipple pain is also common during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The breasts may become larger and painful. The nipple and areola may become darker and more tender, and small lumps and bumps may develop around the nipple. A well-fitting bra can help reduce friction and relieve pain.

6. Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a common cause of nipple pain, and mothers may experience nipple pain due to their baby's sucking movements.

Nipple soreness may also occur if the mother uses a breast pump. This pain is caused by too much suction or using an ill-fitting nipple shield. Adjusting the breast pump to a more comfortable position and using an appropriately sized nipple shield can help reduce discomfort.

Babies who are beginning to teethe are another potential cause of nipple pain, as they may change the way they connect to the breast or even bite the nipple. Women who are breastfeeding can try to encourage their babies to take more of the breast into their mouths so they can't bite off as easily.

7. Hormone changes

Normal hormonal changes during a woman's menstrual cycle can also trigger nipple and breast pain. These symptoms are usually felt in the days before your period starts, when increased levels of estrogen and progesterone bring more fluid to the breasts, making them feel engorged and tender. But pain related to hormonal changes usually subsides when your period starts, and if it lasts for more than a few days, you should see a doctor.

8. Cancer and Paget's disease (inflammation of the areola and nipple)

Some nipple pain and other symptoms can be a sign of a problem such as cancer, although tumors don't usually cause pain, and when they do, it's usually unilateral. Paget's disease is a rare cancer. People with Paget's disease and breast cancer may experience symptoms, including:

1). Flat or inverted nipples

2). Yellow or bloody discharge from the nipple

3). Itching or tingling sensation in the nipples and breasts

4). The skin around the nipple and areola becomes red, flaky, hard, or rough.

Both diseases are diagnosed by pathological examination of the affected cells. Anyone who is unsure of their symptoms should seek medical help.

2. Improvement Methods

Wearing a properly fitted sports bra, choosing smooth synthetic fabrics for clothing or using protective items such as chafing garments and nipple shields during exercise can prevent nipple pain caused by friction. Some creams or ointments can also help reduce friction.

Breast cancer is often treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Treatment for Paget's disease usually involves removal of the nipple and radiation therapy to the affected breast, and some cases may require removal of the entire breast tissue.

In most cases of nipple pain, the pain will go away if the cause is treated. Anyone experiencing persistent, non-resolving symptoms should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.