Itchy Nipples: What's Behind It And What Can You Do?
Itchy nipples are extremely unpleasant. We tell you what's behind it and what you can do about the annoying itching of the nipple.
Content:
Reasons for itchy nipples
When do I need to see a doctor?
What can I do about itchy nipples?
Itchy nipples are really annoying, especially since it is unfortunately inappropriate to scratch this area in public. But what is behind the agonizing itchiness of the nipple in the first place and what can we do about it? We clarify here.
Reasons for itchy nipples
Itchy nipples can have several causes. The following are the most common ones:
Hormonal changes: women often suffer from the unpleasant itching of the nipples during pregnancy and breastfeeding. And itchy nipples can also occur frequently before menstruation. In addition, itching can also occur during puberty due to the growth of the breasts.
Mechanical skin irritation: The skin on the nipples is thin and very sensitive. Friction from clothing can cause the area to become irritated. If the bra fits incorrectly or roughened fabric comes into contact with the sensitive breasts, the nipples start to itch. Irritating chemicals in detergents can also be a trigger.
Dry skin: Especially in winter, we tend to have dry skin. This can also affect the nipples and result in uncomfortable itching.
Skin diseases: A fungal infection or neurodermatitis may be hiding behind the itchy nipples. Another cause can be allergies.. Another cause can be allergies.
So there are many different factors that can be responsible for the itching. Self-observation is the first step to learn the trigger.
When do I need to see a doctor?
If the itching becomes unbearable, lasts longer and the nipples cause additional pain, a gynecologist should be consulted.
What can I do about itchy nipples?
Fortunately, if there is no serious illness, there are some tips that can help against itchy nipples:
1. Cool with a cold washcloth: As a first step, it helps to cool the nipples. To do this, simply take a washcloth to hand and place it on the itchy areas.
2. Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe Vera cools and at the same time, helps to soothe the itching. It is also anti-inflammatory.
3. Curd: A poultice with curd is not only a good home remedy for sunburn, but also helps against itchy nipples. To do this, simply coat a cloth with curd and place it on the nipples. Please wait until it dries a bit and remove the remains with lukewarm water. The curd should be at room temperature before use.
4. Avoid scratching: No matter how hard it is, you should never scratch the nipples, as this could cause inflammation.
5. Change detergent: If you use a different detergent, you can check if your old detergent was the trigger.
6. Evening primrose oil: if you have dry skin, evening primrose oil is a good way to soothe the skin.
7. Apply ointments: if home remedies don't help, there are over-the-counter ointments and gels available at the pharmacy that will stop the itching.
Itchy nipples are terribly unpleasant, but fortunately, they are usually easy to treat.