Everyone's nipple shape is different and that's normal. Even so, there is also an abnormal shape of the nipple. So, there is no harm in knowing more about the shape of the nipple in order to recognize deformities that could be a sign of a serious illness.
The nipple is an organ located in the center of the breast and is surrounded by dark skin called the areola. The nipples have started to form when the baby is still in the womb, which is at 6 weeks of gestation.
Not only for distributing milk, the nipple can also give clues if there is a serious problem with the breast.
Various Facts About the Shape of the Nipple Breast
Knowing the shape of the nipple is normal and not, can help you to be more aware of health problems in the breast. Here are some facts about the shape of the nipples:
1. The shape of the nipples is not the same
As previously explained, the shape of the nipple is quite diverse and varies from person to person. There are those that are large in size, more prominent, flatter, or in a higher or lower position.
The color of the nipples also varies, ranging from pink to dark brown. All of these things are normal, but you need to be aware if one nipple looks more puckered than usual or the areola looks swollen. If you find this, don't hesitate to check with your doctor.
2. The position of the nipple inwards
If you are breastfeeding, don't worry if your nipples get in. This is normal for breastfeeding mothers and will not interfere with breastfeeding. The inverted nipple will protrude again after you finish feeding.
However, you need to be aware if the nipple is pulled inwards outside of breastfeeding and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Discharge of blood or pus from the nipple
- A lump or thickening in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue
- Changes in skin color around the nipple or breast skin
- Peeling of the breast skin or areola
- Changes in breast shape
- Drastic weight loss for no apparent reason
The signs above may point to symptoms of breast cancer and need to be examined and treated as early as possible.
3. The shape and color of the nipples can change
The shape and color of the nipples can change, especially during pregnancy. At this time, the nipple can become larger and the diameter of the areola becomes wider. Not only that, the color of the nipples can also change when you are pregnant or as you get older.
4. There is a small lump around the nipple
Small lumps around the breast are also called Montgomery glands or areolar glands. These glands can secrete oil that serves to lubricate the entire area of the nipple and areola during pregnancy and lactation.
The oil can prevent nipple dryness and chafing, has antibacterial properties, and gives off a scent that can help your baby find the nipple while feeding.
If Montgomery's glands are painful or suddenly enlarged, you need to be alert. Immediately consult a doctor for treatment, because this could indicate a blockage or breast infection.
5. The number of nipples can be more than two
Although rare, there are some people who have more than two nipples. It is located not only in the breasts, but also in the arms, thighs, or even legs.
On the other hand, there are also people who do not have nipples at all, so they need to be made artificial nipples through surgery.
Things to watch out for regarding the shape of the nipples
You should be wary if the nipples have the following signs:
- Nipples discharge persistently for more than a week
- Fluid that comes out with blood
- Nipple skin becomes dry, itchy, and peels off even though it's been given a moisturizer
- Nipples feel sore, red, hot, or thickened like orange peels
- There is a change in the shape of the breast and nipple
The color, size, number, and shape of the nipples can vary. However, there are things you should always do, which is to always maintain breast health to avoid various problems.
There are many ways that can be done, such as not wearing a bra that is too tight, stopping smoking and avoiding cigarette smoke, and limiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
It is important to check the breast regularly to the doctor as an effort to detect various abnormalities in the breast early, including the shape of the nipple. Thus, treatment can be done immediately before the condition gets serious.