Sore nipples are a common condition that occurs as the menstrual cycle approaches. However, you are advised to remain vigilant, because pain or tenderness in the nipples can be a sign of certain diseases or medical conditions.
Some women can experience sore nipples for several reasons, such as when wearing a bra that is less comfortable or before their menstrual period arrives. Not only that, complaints of sore nipples can also be experienced by breastfeeding mothers.
Although it is quite common, you are still advised to be vigilant, because sore nipples can be a symptom of certain medical conditions that need to be treated immediately.
Some Causes of Painful Nipples
There are several causes of a woman experiencing complaints of sore nipples, namely:
1. Breastfeeding baby
How to breastfeed a baby that is not right can be one of the causes of sore nipples. For example, incorrect attachment of the nipple when breastfeeding.
If this happens, avoid forcibly removing the nipple from the baby's mouth. You can remove it by tucking your finger between the nipple and the baby's tongue, then slowly pull the nipple out of the baby's mouth. After that, you can reposition the baby's tongue under the nipple while feeding.
Babies who are teething can also bite the nipple. To avoid biting the nipple, you can make sure the baby's feeding position is right.
2. Mastitis
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that can be caused by infection or blockage of the milk ducts. Although any woman can get mastitis, women who are breastfeeding are more at risk of developing this condition, especially in the first 12 weeks after delivery.
Mastitis usually only occurs in one breast and is characterized by symptoms of sore nipples, reddish breasts, and feeling tired. You can relieve symptoms by applying warm compresses to your breasts, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest.
However, if sore nipples are accompanied by symptoms of fever, nausea and vomiting, swollen breasts, and pus coming out of the nipples, you should see a doctor for proper treatment.
3. Breast abscess
A buildup of pus or a breast abscess can be caused by untreated mastitis. In addition, there are several factors that can increase the risk of women experiencing this condition, namely smoking and nipple piercings.
Symptoms of a breast abscess include breast swelling and redness, as well as sore nipples and discharge of pus. This condition requires immediate treatment from a doctor.
4. Candidiasis
Candidiasis or yeast infection of the nipples can cause pain, redness and blisters in the breasts, and itching. Fungal infections of the nipples can also cause an unpleasant odor.
Candidiasis can be experienced by every woman. However, there are several groups that are more at risk of developing candidiasis, namely diabetics, women who have large breasts, and obese people.
5. Hormonal changes
Changes in levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone before menstruation can make some women experience sore nipples. These complaints will generally subside once the menstrual period begins or after menstruation.
Not only that, changes in hormone levels in pregnant women can also cause sore nipples accompanied by complaints of swollen feet, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, and frequent urination.
6. Irritation
The nipples are a very sensitive area and can react to a number of irritants, such as soaps, detergents, and certain clothing materials, such as wool. Not only that, skin irritation on the nipples can also appear due to hot weather.
Symptoms of skin irritation or dermatitis on the nipples can include pain, itching, redness, or cracked nipples.
7. Friction between the bra and nipples
Sore nipples can also be caused by friction between the bra and the nipple. This can happen if you use a bra that is too big or too small. Friction will occur more easily when you are doing a lot of activities, such as exercising.
To avoid sore nipples due to the wrong bra size, you should use a bra according to the size of the bust circle.
8. Breast cancer
In addition to the above factors, sore nipples can also be caused by breast cancer.
Symptoms that accompany breast cancer can include the appearance of a lump in the breast, discharge from the nipple when not pregnant or breastfeeding, and the nipple is pulled inward. Changes in the size, shape, and color of the skin in the breast can also be a sign of breast cancer.
Therefore, it is important for you to routinely perform breast examinations to detect breast cancer early.
If you are breastfeeding, sore nipples will not affect the baby directly. However, if these conditions make it uncomfortable for you to breastfeed and your baby is unable to breastfeed properly, he may not be getting enough milk and this will result in difficulty gaining weight.
If the nipple pain does not improve after a few days and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, redness, and pus coming out of the nipple, you should see a doctor so that it can be treated properly.