Why do nipples become rough? Why do nipples become hard in men and women? New menstrual cycle

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 your interesting position, expectant mothers are perplexed as to why their nipples have become so sensitive. This phenomenon can be attributed to another wisdom of nature, which foresaw everything down to the smallest detail and created the 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 of increased sensitivity of the nipples in certain days 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.

Interestingly, nipples harden in both men and women. Nipples can react to changes in temperature, tactile sensations, and emotional stress. Let's figure out what hard nipples mean and what happens at this moment.

In most cases, this is a normal physiological response to stimuli. The thing is that a huge number of nerve endings are concentrated in the chest. Women have an order of magnitude more of them than men.

This structure of the mammary gland is due to evolution and has great importance for procreation. And stimulation causes the release of hormones that stabilize emotional condition and normalize the functioning of the reproductive system.

There are reasons why nipples may become hard:

• Arousal, both emotional and physiological. Any strong emotions affect the tone of the mammary gland.
• Temperature change.
• Touching.

Let's consider each reason separately.

How the breasts react to stimulation

Nipples may become hard during sexual desire. This reaction is expressed differently in girls. For some, minimal stimulation is enough. Some people only react to touch. There are girls whose nipples practically do not react to stimuli. These are all variants of the physiological norm.

It works like this: it has long been known that arousal originates in the brain, which transmits corresponding signals to the body. Excitation causes irritation of sensitive receptors. The same reaction is observed with tactile stimulation. It is believed that hard nipples are a clear sign excitement in women. Interestingly, the same reaction is observed in men, but it is less pronounced.

Temperature fluctuations

The second most common reason is temperature fluctuations, and more specifically, cold. The breast is a very sensitive organ; it responds well to any changes in the environment. Typically, nipples become harder when it gets colder. If you raise the temperature gradually, such a reaction will not occur. The more sudden and unpleasant temperature changes occur, the more the nipples and areolas harden.

If we consider this process from a physiological point of view, then hardening is associated with spasm of the chest muscles. Nerve receptors are stimulated and transmit a signal to the muscles, which begin to contract. This process is very similar to the formation of goosebumps on the skin when exposed to cold. In the cold, nipples not only harden, but also change shape, and the areola may become slightly smaller. Typically, such changes take place within 5-10 minutes, depending on individual physiological characteristics.

Emotional condition

Some girls' nipples harden when their emotional state changes. Any emotion, be it anger or joy, can cause an unusual reaction. According to statistics, this feature does not occur very often, only in 2-3% of girls.

Nipples may become harder before your period. This normal condition, along with symptoms such as:

• Soreness.
• Swelling.
• Unstable emotional state.

If this symptom does not cause inconvenience and does not interfere with normal life, then therapy is not required.

Pregnancy and lactation

During pregnancy, breasts change. The body prepares for many months of feeding a child. These changes are not always pleasant for the body. One of the signs of pregnancy is hardening of the nipples. They become rougher and may increase in size. It's connected with.

During pregnancy, other changes are observed in the breasts that are associated with preparation for feeding:

• Changing the shape of the nipple, changing the shape of the mammary glands. If these changes are scary, it is better to see a mammologist. Usually the shape changes over time, and the breasts return to normal after lactation.
• Tissue hardening.
• and mammary gland. Feels on later pregnancy is associated with the appearance of milk.
• Pain is considered normal if it does not cause serious discomfort. The breasts become more sensitive to avoid unnecessary stimulation.

So, changes in the mammary glands during pregnancy are considered normal.

What do men have

Oddly enough, men's nipples can also become hard. Various reasons can provoke such a reaction:

• Excitation.
• Intoxication.
• Breasts change during puberty.
• Some diseases of the mammary glands.

During sex, men's nipples rarely get hard, but about 5% experience this reaction. Some men have very sensitive breasts, so their nipples become harder when aroused and touched.

Very unusual changes occur during alcohol intoxication. This reaction is observed in 80% of men. Scientists find it difficult to answer the question of why this happens.

Puberty

Male puberty occurs in several stages. Hormonal changes in one way or another affect all systems and organs.

A hormonal storm begins with the active manifestation of secondary sexual characteristics:

• Hair growth begins on the face and body.
• The voice becomes rougher.
• There is an increase in physical strength and endurance.

So why do nipples get harder? The thing is that the hormonal and emotional background is as unstable as possible during this period. The nipples may involuntarily harden, then the breasts return to normal. This reaction has little to do with the environment. The hardness persists for 20-30 minutes, then goes away.

If this is the only breast symptom, then there is nothing to worry about. If there is growth of breast tissue, gynecomastia is possible, and you should consult a specialist.

Breast diseases

Hard nipples may indicate the presence of breast disease. If there are accompanying symptoms, it is necessary to undergo examination. It is important to remember that it affects not only women, but also men.

You should be concerned if hardness is accompanied by one of the following symptoms:

• Changes in the skin of the nipple or areola.
• Long-term or permanent change in shape.
• Pain and discomfort that does not go away for a long time.
• Severe signs of inflammation.
• Overgrowth of breast tissue - for men, may indicate gynecomastia.
• Release of fluid.

If you notice at least one symptom, you need to visit a mammologist.

Results and conclusions

Anyone can have hard nipples – men and women, at any age. There are many reasons for this. Most often, this is the body’s response to irritation or a change in environment. If this reaction is not accompanied by others unpleasant symptoms, then there is nothing to worry about. If you suspect an illness, it is important to seek medical help. Many breast diseases are hidden and mildly manifested in the early stages.

The main criterion for breast health is whether it changes over time. If you are characterized by high sensitivity, then hardening of your nipples is a normal situation. In cases where such a reaction has not been observed before, and visible reasons no – you need specialist advice.

Male and female orgasms, despite the same name, have many differences. If for men everything is simple in this regard, and with the end of sexual intercourse (ejaculation) he experiences complete satisfaction, then not every sex for women ends with orgasm.

As you know, during intimate relations, women experience a rush of blood to the pelvic organs. This phenomenon, in turn, leads to the fact that the clitoris, which is internally very similar to the penis, increases in size and swells. At the same time, the nipples also harden, but not all ladies know why this happens in women during sex. Let's try to understand this delicate issue.

Why do nipples get hard when aroused?

To give a comprehensive answer to this question, let us turn to the anatomical and physiological features of the structure of the mammary glands in women.

As you know, this organ is densely supplied with nerve endings that intertwine muscle structures. It is the latter that ensure the movement of milk through the ducts during lactation. However, any touch to the breast causes contraction of muscle fibers, so this happens not only when breastfeeding the baby.

This phenomenon is precisely what is observed during sexual intercourse, when a partner gently strokes a woman’s breasts. Such actions, as a rule, prepare the female body for sexual intercourse, because The mammary glands have a relationship with the reproductive system, in particular. The latter begins to gradually increase in size, due to the smoothing of the skin folds that exist in its walls. At the same time, the labia majora swell, and the labia minora become hard and elastic, resembling rollers. This is necessary in order to increase the entrance to the vagina, and thereby reduce pain during sexual intercourse.

If we talk directly about why female nipples harden during intimate caresses, then first of all it is necessary to talk about large quantities the nerve endings that are located in them. It is they, when irritated, that produce a nerve impulse, and thereby give a signal to muscle structures to contract. At the same time, blood flow to the mammary gland increases, as a result of which it becomes slightly rougher and the nipple itself hardens. In some literary sources you can find such a term as “nipple erection”, which is compared with penile erection in men. In other words, this phenomenon is a kind of indicator

In what other situations do women get hard nipples?

However, it is also worth saying that hardening of the nipples can also be observed in the absence of arousal, as a result of exposure to cold on the body, as well as in cases where the underwear has several larger size and when walking rubs the surface of the nipples. As a rule, this phenomenon does not last long, and after literally 2-3 minutes the nipples take their previous shape.

There is also such a phenomenon as sudden erection of the nipples in women. The reasons for its development have not been studied. At the same time, girls who experience this claim that their nipples harden on their own, regardless of their thoughts and feelings. This erection of the nipples does not last long, but can occur several times during one day.

Thus, as can be seen from the article, the main reason that explains why girls’ nipples get hard is sexual arousal. As a rule, this gives a woman a lot of pleasure and is an integral part of orgasm for the fair sex.

When hormonal levels change or external conditions the reaction of the female body can be unpredictable. The mammary glands, including the nipples, become especially sensitive. Why does this happen and is hardening a sign of a dangerous disease?

Why women's nipples get hard: possible reasons

Don't panic or get scared ahead of time. Of course, objective reason Only a doctor can tell you after diagnosis and examinations. Our article is for informational purposes and if hardening is detected, you need to consult a specialist as soon as possible.

Why do women and men have hard nipples? In fact, nipples can react to any influence. This can happen both during intimacy with a partner, and when watching a video with a “strawberry”. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that in this part of the mammary glands there are nerve endings. They conduct nerve impulses and send a signal to the muscles, causing the nipples to become smaller and firmer.

What could be the reason:

Changes in hormonal levels . You may have high or low testosterone or estrogen levels. The reaction of each body is individual, so to determine it you will need to take a blood test for hormones.

Proximity. For many men and women, nipples become denser and harder with intimacy. This occurs due to excitement, and such a reaction is considered quite normal.

Low temperature. Another common reason is cold. This is how the mammary glands react to the influence low temperatures, strong wind. Hardening may be accompanied by the appearance of goosebumps on the skin.

Puberty. This phenomenon can also be observed during the transition period, when a girl becomes a girl or a woman, which is also associated with hormonal changes.

Pregnancy . Some representatives of the fair sex have nipples that react to pregnancy in this way. This is due to hormonal changes. Hardening is also accompanied by enlargement of the mammary glands, which may hurt.

Incorrectly selected underwear. Perhaps this is how your breasts react to the fabric from which the bra is made. Hardening is accompanied by itching and redness.

Inflammation. If your nipples are hard for several days or even weeks, this may be a sign of inflammation in the body. To determine the cause, it is necessary to undergo the necessary examinations and tests. Most often in such cases, the nipples hurt, fluid and pus ooze from them.

Intoxication. Studies have shown that very often nipples become hard when a person is in drunkenness. They become denser and decrease in size by several millimeters.

As you can see, there can be many reasons for hardening. If this is accompanied by pain and swelling, only a doctor can help you; you should not self-medicate.

From time to time, nipples can become hard in all people, regardless of gender and age. There are many reasons, ranging from the simplest (cold) to the presence of inflammatory processes. If you notice that their condition is changing regardless of atmospheric conditions and other factors, it’s time to sound the alarm.

To find out why nipples become hard, you need to understand the causes of this phenomenon.

Often these are physiological changes or external factors, but cases of the disease occur less frequently.

What causes nipples to swell? What to do if it’s swollen When to contact a specialist?

Causes of hard nipples in women

This is due to a special physiology, distinguishable from that of men. There can be many reasons, you should deal with each of them separately.

As a girl's body matures, this may be accompanied by various processes. In addition to menstruation and external changes, breasts grow.

The areolas darken and the nipple enlarges. Gradually, the girl’s body turns into a woman’s.

During this period, the nipples may become hard due to the growth and development of the gland.

Sexual desire and arousal

After childbirth, the nipples should harden and enlarge in preparation for feeding the baby.

If your nipples are swollen, this may be the cause of your menstrual period. The action occurs in 2 - 3 days, without causing any inconvenience. A similar condition can occur on the day of ovulation, causing slight discomfort.

For reference!

Not all women experience these symptoms. Typically, if your period is accompanied by hard nipples, it begins during puberty and continues until menopause.

In cases where such a condition is not typical for the body, you should consult a doctor.

With changes in hormonal levels, nipples are likely to increase in size. The reasons may be a number of factors:

1. Hormonal therapy.
2. Inflammatory processes of the female reproductive organs.
3. Cycle disruption.
4. Side effects of drugs.
5. Malfunction of the endocrine system.
6. Stress and nervous tension.
7. Breast infections.

Hormonal problems often begin as a result of incorrectly selected oral contraceptives.

The cause can be found after analysis, after which treatment is prescribed to stabilize hormones in the body. If the therapy is successful, the symptoms will disappear on their own.

Uncomfortable underwear

When wearing an uncomfortable bra, your nipples may be soft or hard. The cause of discomfort is ruffles, guipure inserts and other decorative elements.

If a woman does not wear a bra, the friction of the nipples with the fabric of clothing can lead to nerve impulses in the breasts. In this case, swelling of the nipples is observed.

To get rid of inconvenience, you should choose comfortable underwear made from cotton fabrics.

What diseases affect nipples

In the case when no reasons can explain the woman’s condition, diseases remain. They affect breast tissue, changing its appearance and shape.

There are several diseases that can cause swollen nipples:

Inflammatory process in the mammary glands. It begins due to stagnation of milk. Microbes from cracks on the surface, usually staphylococcus, enter the breast and infect the ducts.

Stagnation of milk in the gland. Occurs when there is much more fluid in the chest than the baby can suck out. It is necessary to strain the seals manually or using a breast pump.

The presence of malignant tumors is painful, appearance breast changes. When palpated, you can find lumps; there is rarely discharge from the nipples.

In addition, nipples can change their shape due to gynecological or venereal diseases.

If a woman has suddenly gained weight, this can also cause enlarged and protruding nipples. the change in appearance occurs due to the expansion of adipose tissue.

Causes of hard nipples in men

Men and women's bodies are different, so symptoms and treatment may vary.

It is known that most often men's nipples do not stick out, but if the opposite happens, this does not always indicate a disease.

Just like girls, boys' bodies change during puberty. There is an increase in hair growth, the voice breaks.

Rudeness may accompany these changes. Often the nipples are not erect, but sometimes this happens. The condition is not a pathology and can last up to half an hour.

If the symptom is observed constantly, the boy’s chest hurts and the nipples are swollen, this indicates a pathological condition and requires detailed study.

Libido and arousal

Some men may experience hardened nipples during sex and arousal. This happens rarely, which, however, is absolutely normal.

Sometimes in men the chest is an erogenous zone. This is easy to determine; light stimulation and stroking are enough.

Cold air and water

Like women, for men to have erect nipples, it is enough to get into a cold room or water. The reasons for the process are the same.

To avoid this, you should dress warmly. In this case, the body will not be subject to a sharp transition from warm to cold.

Diseases of men

If there is an increase in the size of the nipple, this may indicate a disease. Men may have the following reasons:

1. Viral infections.
2. Endocrine diseases.
3. Inflammatory process.

The consequence of the disease is almost always fluid discharge and pain.

Interesting!

In men, nipples become hard and areolas become smaller when intoxicated. The physiology is still unknown.

What signs should you see a doctor for?

What symptoms should alert a person? They are no different for men and women:

1. The nipple suddenly became sore and the condition worsened.
2. The halos have swollen and enlarged.
3. The chest has acquired an unusual appearance, skin deformation is visible.
4. There is aching pain.
5. The nipples become hard and produce fluid or pus.
6. Pressing on one breast hurts more than pressing on the other.

All diseases can be treated with timely consultation with a specialist. Therefore, at the first suspicion of illness, you need to be examined and begin treatment.

But do not panic ahead of time, because this may turn out to be a natural process that does not require adjustment, or an individual feature.

Despite the fact that it is the 21st century and many issues have long been discussed openly and without embarrassment, there are still some nuances that we still talk about “in a whisper.”

We often turn to the online community for help, wanting to simultaneously satisfy our interest and remain incognito. Among such intimate questions, you can find a desire to know more about the reasons why nipples stand and how this happens.

Simple physiology: how does nipple erection occur?

Each of us visually has a very good idea of ​​our breasts. At the same time, clearly distinguishing and defining: this is a man’s breast, and this is a woman’s. But not everyone knows that the chest contains many nerve endings that are located around muscle structures.

External stimuli provoke contraction of these muscle fibers, which ultimately leads to erection of the nipples.

So, for example, speaking about physical arousal, the mechanism of “nipple erection” can be described approximately like this:

1. Touching causes irritation of nerve endings.
2. During this process, a nerve impulse is formed and sent to the brain.
3. After it is processed by the brain, there is an increase in blood flow to the mammary glands, including to the nipples.
4. As a result, the nipples harden and “stand up.”

If changes in the breast occur due to cold, then the essence of nipple erection in this case comes down to spasms of muscle fibers that form goosebumps on the skin: the muscles contract and a change in shape, and sometimes even the color of the nipple, as well as the skin around it, occurs.

When is nipple erection a normal reflex?

So, you ask: are nipple hardening always normal? And what is “the norm” in this case, and what is a deviation from it?

The answers to these and other questions are contained in the reasons for erect nipples and, oddly enough, in the frequency of repetitions of this reaction. In this case, you should be especially attentive to the fact that the “female” reasons are somewhat different from the “male” ones.

What can cause nipple erection in women?

The reasons for erect nipples in women include:

Temperature changes

Many people 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 is not achieved by a gradual decrease in temperature, but by sudden changes, which in most cases are unpleasant and uncomfortable for the female body.

Sexual desire

Anticipation of sex, foreplay/preparation for sexual intercourse, sex itself is the most common cause of hardened nipples, and one of the main signs (indicators) of arousal in women, often confirming pleasure from the process. Most often it occurs as a reaction to stroking and touching.

Pregnancy period

During pregnancy, breasts generally change. Naturally, both the nipples and areola change. Nipples may increase in size, become rough, and their sensitivity increases.

In some cases, pain may occur in the entire breast or individual parts, including the nipples. There is no need to worry about this - most often this is a normal physiological reaction to changes occurring in the body. But, if you notice that the pain is getting worse, then you should urgently consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Premenstrual syndrome

Nipple sensitivity can be one of the symptoms of PMS. Before the start of a new menstrual cycle (the day before critical days) For many women, the breasts seem to swell, gain weight, they note an increase in the sensitivity of the nipples, and that they can periodically stand 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, which remains even after menstruation, then you should not delay visiting a specialist. Remember, the diagnosis will ensure timely treatment of the mammary glands.

Incorrectly selected underwear

If the bra size is larger than the girl needs, the nipples can rub against its inner surface, harden, become rough and “stand up”.

Spontaneous nipple erection

This happens rarely and not for all women. This reaction is not associated with thoughts, feelings or sensations. Usually does not last long, but at the same time it may recur throughout the day.

Psychological state/nervous agitation/tension

Individual characteristics nervous system sometimes they can be expressed in the fact that a woman’s breasts harden and her nipples “stand up.”

What reasons can cause hard nipples in men?

The reasons for erect male nipples can be described as follows:

Excitation

This is where nipple hardening in men converges with women's reaction to sex. Sometimes nipples can be one of a man’s strong erogenous zones, although this is considered rare and does not occur in everyone.

Puberty

Nipples may become hard due to hormonal changes. As you know, the reactions of a teenager’s body during puberty are unstable, so erection of the nipples can occur completely arbitrarily, either for a couple of minutes or for a longer time.

Intoxication

When the level of alcohol in the blood exceeds, men often have nipples that stick out, but the areolas decrease in size.

Temperature changes

Erection of the nipples can occur from 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 a consequence of an inflammatory process in the body. During self-examination, you need to pay attention to whether there are any discharges from the chest, especially purulent ones.

If they are available, you need to make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible, without postponing the visit.

In what cases should you urgently visit a doctor?

Having studied the reasons for erect nipples, we can say that almost all of them are normal and harmless. Don't panic, get upset or embarrassed if your nipples become erect - this is physiology. But there are still cases when you need to pay close attention to your body.

We have already mentioned discharge from the nipples above - if there is any, then you should consult a doctor immediately. In addition, evidence of ill health can include itching in the nipples, redness or other changes noticeable during self-examination.

It is advisable to describe such deviations by seeking help and advice from a specialist.

Remember that when it comes to health, it is better to play it safe and rule out a disease than to ignore a seemingly insignificant symptom and trigger the disease.

Video: what should healthy nipples look like?

The female body is very mysterious and includes many processes that directly depend on hormonal levels. This also affects the sensitivity of the nipples. But what else can cause their increased susceptibility, what are the reasons for this phenomenon and is it related to pathologies.

What is nipple sensitivity

The nipples are riddled with various receptors and endings that respond to touch and all kinds of irritants. Most women may not feel anything when lightly stroked, but for some, any contact with external factors triggers a reaction. What could this depend on and why do nipples suddenly become overly sensitive? Reasons why this may happen:

1. During the period of PMS.
2. During menstruation itself.
3. Pregnancy.
4. While breastfeeding.

This is when the mammary glands and nipples begin to swell due to the excess flow of blood plasma. This is why the sensitivity of the nipples and breasts increases.

Pregnancy

Sensitive nipples are common during pregnancy. Statistics say that 80% of the manifestations of excessive susceptibility of this zone in women occur even in very early stages, since hormonal background begins to experience enormous 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 contractions of the uterus. When this area becomes sensitive and it is painful to touch the nipples, it is advisable for the woman to avoid stimulation of the mammary glands, which has a beneficial effect on the course of pregnancy, especially when it 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 to fit your existing breast size and be made from natural fabrics.

Nipple sensitivity increases due to breastfeeding. 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 feeding from a bottle and breastfeeding forms improper sucking. Pain may also occur due to untimely replacement of the chest pad. This increases the moisture content of the skin on the nipples, making them overly soft. Pain can provoke inept termination of the feeding process and separation of the baby from the mother's breast.

Dry, sore, or irritated nipples may cause these symptoms. Also, don’t forget about uncomfortable underwear. At the time of breastfeeding, it is better to give preference 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. This hormone allows the endometrium to thicken to required thickness and save the fruit. This substance reaches its peak 7 days after the start of the second phase. Then women begin to notice that their nipples have become much more sensitive, and their breasts have increased slightly. Such reasons are often confused with pregnancy symptoms, but over time everything falls into place.

Ovulation

If your nipples suddenly become sensitive, this may indicate the onset of ovulation, when the egg leaves the ovary. The reasons also lie in hormones. In the first phases, the presence of estrogen is more dominant. 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 approaches, the body feels the beginning of reformation. A latinizing hormone is released, which affects the rupture of the follicle and egg rejection. At the same time, this substance affects the woman’s breasts. This 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.

Presence of pathologies

Nipple sensitivity increases if female body with some pathological processes. Often this symptom occurs when the patient suffers from hormonal ailments:

• Uterine fibroids.
• Polycystic disease, etc.

Also, the fact that nipples have become more receptive can be affected by the presence of tumors in the mammary glands. At the same time, an increase or deformation of the shape of the breast is observed, and the painful sensations do not give rest for a long period and become more acute each time.

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

Nipple sensitivity may be explained individual characteristics human body and skin. The causes of manifestation arise 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 procedures in order to rule out 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 psychological aspect: negative emotions, stressful situations, conflicts arising in intimate terms, etc.

If there is a need to take oral contraceptives, then before using them you need to consult a doctor who will recommend a suitable drug. You should also properly care for the skin of your breasts and nipples, using hypoallergenic products and gels for intimate hygiene.

When a person discovers that their nipples have become too painful or hard, they begin to wonder if these symptoms may indicate serious problems with health. Good news is that pain and increased hardness of the nipples rarely indicate cancer or other dangerous diseases.

There is nothing alarming about nipples becoming irritated after certain types of physical activity, for example, after sports training. This usually resolves with simple treatments that mainly involve resting the nipples and some behavioral changes.

In this current article, we will outline the causes of nipple pain and hardness, look at how to manage symptoms of this condition, and indicate when you should see a doctor if you have nipple pain.

The content of the article:

Causes of hard and painful nipples

Sometimes hardness is the natural state of the nipples. The pain that comes with hardness can in many cases be prevented or controlled. The reasons for hard and sore nipples include the following.

1. Exercise and sports

Hard nipples rarely indicate dangerous diseases

Physical activity can cause nipple friction and pain.

This is especially common in women who do not wear 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, surfers and many other sports may experience similar symptoms.

2. Allergies and sensitivities

Nipples are among the most sensitive areas of the body and respond differently to stimulation. Sensitivity to changes in weather and certain fabrics, including wool, can also cause irritation.

Soaps, lotions and washing powders can cause allergic reactions and itching. They can also cause nipples to become red and cracked.

3. Sexual activity

Strong and sharp frictions during sexual intercourse, including those that occur during oral stimulation during foreplay, can cause sensitivity and soreness of the nipples. Usually this condition occurs temporarily after sex and soon goes away on its own.

4. Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding often causes nipple problems, particularly 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 sore. Women who develop mastitis should consult a doctor for evaluation and subsequent treatment.

Applying lanolin-based creams and ointments between feedings helps the skin maintain moisture. In addition, a woman should keep her nipples clean.

5. Thrush

The pain can be a consequence of thrush on the nipples. This is one of the types of candidiasis - a common infection that is associated with the activity of the fungus candida albicans. This condition is also common in women who are breastfeeding. Other symptoms include burning, tingling, cracking and soreness.

Thrush can be passed from mother to baby during breastfeeding. In both cases it must be treated. Infants who have thrush usually have white spots in the mouth area.

6. Pregnancy

Sensitivity and soreness of the nipples is a typical condition for pregnant women. In particular, it is often observed during the first trimester, although similar symptoms can occur in the third. A well-fitted bra will help minimize friction, pain and irritation.

7. Menstrual cycles

Nipple soreness tends to develop as the level increases. This usually happens about a week before the start. Pain, tenderness, and other symptoms ease as hormonal levels return to normal.

8. Perimenopause and menopause

As a woman begins to go through and, the breasts and nipples may become more tender, vulnerable and sensitive. This occurs as a result of fluctuations in hormone levels.

9. Birth control products

Some birth control pills have side effects similar to pregnancy symptoms. They tend to go away as the body gets used to the drugs, which may take several months. If side effects do not disappear over time, the woman should see a doctor.

10. Certain medicines and plants

Medicines prescribed to treat depression and anxiety may cause pain and other symptoms in the breasts and nipples.

Some herbal medicines, including those taken to improve production breast milk, sometimes also lead to breast tissue sensitivity and pain.

11. Ectasia of the milk ducts

Milk duct ectasia most often develops in women who are approaching menopause. This condition is not associated with breast cancer and does not increase the risk of developing it.

Mammary duct ectasia is a condition in which the milk ducts become enlarged and blocked, resulting in nipple changes, sensitivity, redness, pain, and thick discharge.

Milk duct ectasia can cause mastitis or other types of breast infections. 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 break in the skin that allows bacteria to enter the breast tissue.

Breast abscesses can lead to pain, localized fever, as well as redness and a general fever. If you have an abscess, you should consult a doctor who can drain the formation. Doctors drain small abscesses with a needle and syringe, but larger ones often require an incision.

13. Eczema

Eczema can cause itching and pain on one or both nipples. Nipples affected by eczema often appear 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 visit a doctor before using this drug to get an accurate diagnosis. The fact is that some other conditions, including cancer, can mimic the symptoms of eczema.

14. Raynaud's phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon is common in nursing mothers. However breast-feeding does not cause this condition, which can develop in any person.

People with Raynaud's phenomenon experience spasms of the arteries that supply blood to the nipples. Restricted blood flow causes numbness, burning, pain, and a white or blue discoloration of the skin. When 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 ranges from one to four percent.

The first signs of Paget's disease on the nipples are redness and crusting. Later the following symptoms may present:

• tingling;
• increased sensitivity;
• pain;
• burning;
• change in nipple shape;
• bloody or yellowish discharge.

If other areas of the breast are not affected, doctors will likely suggest surgery and radiation (radiation) therapy as treatment. However, chemotherapy or other treatments may be required. It all depends on the stage the cancer has reached before 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 - possible symptoms breast cancer

Painful and hard nipples in men

Irritation may result from nipples rubbing against sportswear

Not only women, but also men experience nipple pain. The latter more often detect this symptom as a result of injuries, which, as a rule, result from sporting events. Nipple irritation in men sometimes occurs as a result of contact with clothing during exercise. Additionally, men may 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;
• nipple retraction.

It is important for men to be regularly checked by a doctor and monitor healthy image life, 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 sensitivity and soreness. These methods include:

• massage;
• cold tea bags;
• warm compresses;
• humidifiers.

Cold tea bags may ease nipple pain

There is no evidence that these strategies are helpful, but some may provide symptom 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, they can be combated with special products that protect the skin of athletes. It should be used before every workout to reduce friction.

If symptoms occur after using new skin care products, including shampoo, you should stop using the product and see if relief occurs.

When should you 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 experiences unusual symptoms, 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 always consult a doctor if they have nipple pain, especially if the pain is accompanied by discharge.