No, nipples do not always hurt when touched. Nipple sensitivity varies greatly depending on individual factors and circumstances. While gentle touch may be comfortable, pain can result from several causes.
Common Causes of Nipple Pain:
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menstruation and pregnancy, can increase nipple sensitivity and cause pain. [Reference: In most cases, sore nipples are caused by hormonal changes from pregnancy or menstruation, allergies or friction from clothing.]
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is a common cause of nipple soreness, often due to latch issues, over-feeding, or irritation from friction. [Reference: Breastfeeding is arguably the most common source of sore nipples in women. Breastfeeding a baby for extended periods can cause swelling, tenderness, chafing, …] [Reference: The nipple can become a little overstretched and flattened, and possibly painful.]
- Infections: Infections like yeast infections (thrush) can cause burning and stinging pain in the nipples. [Reference: 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.] [Reference: Nipples can be sore to the touch in case of infections such as mastitis, a condition that affects the milk ducts. Typically, breastfeeding women …]
- Allergies and Irritants: Allergic reactions to lotions, detergents, or fabrics can cause irritation and pain. Friction from clothing can also aggravate sensitive nipples. [Reference: In most cases, sore nipples are caused by hormonal changes from pregnancy or menstruation, allergies or friction from clothing.] [Reference: Tight clothes, rashes, and infections can all irritate the tender skin.]
- Other Conditions: Conditions like eczema, sunburn, and even certain medications can cause nipple pain. [Reference: Most nipple pain is normal and nothing to worry about. It could be caused by an allergic reaction, eczema, hormonal changes, sexual activity, or sunburns.]
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While many causes of nipple pain are benign, persistent or severe pain, especially accompanied by other symptoms like discharge or lumps, warrants a visit to a healthcare professional. This is crucial to rule out more serious conditions, such as breast cancer, though it's important to note that breast cancer itself often doesn't cause pain. [Reference: In rare cases, it can be a sign of a serious disease like breast cancer. Your healthcare provider should evaluate any pain that's accompanied by discharge or lumps as soon as possible.] [Reference: Although most breast cancers do not cause pain in the breast or nipple, some do.]
