Why Does My Nipples Hurt

Wondering why your nipples hurt? Discover the most common causes, treatments, and prevention tips for nipple pain in 2025, and learn when to see a doctor.

If you’ve ever wondered, “why do my nipples hurt?” — you’re not alone. Nipple pain is surprisingly common and can affect people of all genders. It may be mild and temporary or indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention. Understanding what’s causing the pain can help you find relief and prevent future discomfort.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common causes of nipple pain, what to do about it, and when it’s time to see a healthcare professional.

What Causes Nipple Pain?

There are several possible reasons why your nipples hurt — from friction and hormonal changes to infections or allergies. The good news is that most causes are not serious and can be treated easily.

Here are the most common explanations:

1. Friction or Chafing

One of the leading causes of nipple pain is friction. This happens when clothing, sports bras, or workout shirts rub against your skin. It’s especially common among runners, athletes, and people who engage in high-intensity workouts.

Symptoms:

Redness or irritation
Burning or stinging sensation
Dry or flaky skin around the nipple

Tip: Use a soft, moisture-wicking sports bra or apply petroleum jelly or a specialized balm before exercise to prevent chafing.

2. Hormonal Changes

For women, nipple tenderness is often linked to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. Rising levels of estrogen and progesterone can make the breasts more sensitive.

You may notice:

Soreness before or during your period
Swelling or fullness in the breasts
Temporary tenderness that resolves on its own

If the pain is cyclical and predictable, it’s likely hormone-related. However, if it persists or feels different from usual, consult your healthcare provider.

3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

During early pregnancy, increased blood flow and hormonal activity make nipples more sensitive. Later, breastfeeding can cause soreness due to latching issues or cracked skin.

Common causes during breastfeeding:

If you suspect a breastfeeding-related issue, the La Leche League International provides expert guidance and support for new mothers.

4. Allergic Reactions or Skin Irritation

Certain soaps, lotions, laundry detergents, or fabrics can cause contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction.

Watch for:

Itchy, red, or scaly skin
Burning sensation after using new products
Rash around the nipples

Switching to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products often solves the problem.

5. Infections

Nipple pain can also stem from bacterial or fungal infections. These are more likely if you have cracked or broken skin.

Signs of infection include:

Swelling or pus
Warmth around the area
Persistent pain or fever

If you suspect an infection, seek medical help immediately. Topical or oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may be required.

6. Eczema or Psoriasis

Chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can affect the nipple area, leading to dryness, itching, and inflammation.

Keeping the skin moisturized and using prescribed creams can help manage symptoms. Visit The National Eczema Association for expert-backed skincare tips.

7. Piercings or Injuries

Nipple piercings or trauma can also lead to pain, especially during the healing process. Clean the area regularly with saline solution, and avoid tight clothing that might irritate the wound.

If swelling, redness, or discharge persists, it might indicate infection.

8. Rare But Serious Causes

Occasionally, nipple pain can signal more serious conditions like breast infections (mastitis) or, rarely, breast cancer. Warning signs include:

Discharge (especially if bloody or from one nipple)
A lump in the breast
Persistent pain not linked to your menstrual cycle

If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor for evaluation and imaging tests. You can find professional breast health guidelines at breastcancer.org.

Home Remedies for Nipple Pain

Most mild cases of nipple pain can be treated at home. Here are some effective remedies:

Apply warm or cold compresses to reduce swelling or discomfort.
Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
Use nipple creams or ointments (lanolin or aloe vera work well).
Stay hydrated and maintain good hygiene.
Avoid harsh soaps or chemicals that dry out the skin.

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical advice if:

The pain lasts more than a few days without improvement.
You notice unusual discharge or bleeding.
There’s swelling, redness, or fever.
You feel a lump or thickening in your breast.

Persistent or worsening nipple pain could be a sign of infection or a hormonal imbalance that needs medical attention.

Prevention Tips

You can reduce your risk of nipple pain by following these preventive steps:

Wear properly fitted bras and change them regularly.
Moisturize daily to prevent dryness and cracking.
Avoid scratching or picking at irritated skin.
Clean piercings according to aftercare instructions.
Practice good breastfeeding techniques with the help of a lactation consultant.

Final Thoughts

So, why do your nipples hurt? The causes can range from simple skin irritation to hormonal changes or infections. Most cases are minor and improve with proper care, but persistent pain deserves medical evaluation.

Your comfort and health matter. If you’re unsure about the cause, don’t ignore the symptoms—schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to get professional advice and peace of mind.

If you found this helpful, explore our latest wellness guides on breast health and skin sensitivity solutions to learn practical tips for keeping your body comfortable and healthy.

For expert-backed advice on hormonal balance and skin care, visit Mayo Clinic’s Breast Health section.