Blog | Maternidad

Nipple Pain: Possible Pregnancy Symptom

Written by Clínica Bíblica | Sep 4, 2025 6:16:45 PM

Nipple pain can be caused by a variety of reasons, from an allergic reaction to the shape and use of the bra of choice. However, many times this pain is due to hormonal changes that could suggest something else. Is nipple tip pain a symptom of pregnancy? We invite you to read on and find out!

Causes of Nipple Pain During Pregnancy

Have you ever wondered what can cause pain in the nipple area? This sensation presents different scales from mild discomfort to intense or acute pain. The main cause is related to the hormonal surge that arises throughout the gestation period. As pregnancy progresses, hormone levels fluctuate and increase significantly, causing changes in the breast tissues, giving way to swelling and tenderness in the nipples. The increase in breast size also represents a factor to consider when it comes to having painful sensations in the nipple area, as this would also generate pressure and inflammation.

Nipple Pain in Pregnancy: Is it Normal?

It is completely normal to experience nipple tenderness and soreness while pregnant; the amount of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, increases in order to support the development of the mammary glands and prepare the breasts for lactation. This hormonal change makes the nipples more likely to experience tenderness and soreness. On the other hand, the increased blood flow to the breasts causes discomfort. Although this pain can become uncomfortable, it is a normal part of the pregnancy process and usually diminishes over time.

Symptoms Associated with Nipple Pain in Pregnancy

Symptoms, as mentioned above, are subject to variations and traits of each individual, however, there are concise symptoms that are associated with these pains during pregnancy. Here are some of them:

  1. Tenderness and swelling in the nipple area.
  2. Tingling in the nipples and areolas.
  3. General physical discomfort.
  4. Increase in the volume or size of the mammary glands.
  5. Constant itching of the nipples.

Relief from Nipple Pain in Pregnancy

Nipple soreness is not only a sign of a possible pregnancy, but is a common sensation due to the physical and hormonal transformations of the pregnancy process. On many occasions the severity of the pain will depend on each person, however, there are methods with the aim of mitigating this pain that often becomes unbearable for some women. Do you want to know what these are? Keep scrolling down and we will show them to you!

Tips to Relieve Nipple Tip Pain

By following the recommendations below you can relieve the pain and feel more comfortable during pregnancy:

  1. Wear a proper bra: Try to wear a well-fitting bra that provides good support and reduces friction on your nipples. Choose soft, seamless fabrics to avoid further irritation.
  2. Apply hot or cold compresses: Try using hot or cold compresses on your nipples to relieve nipple sensitivity and reduce soreness. You can try both and see which gives you better results.
  3. Use moisturizing creams or oils: Rub a natural cream or oil on your nipples to keep the skin soft and moisturized, this helps reduce sensitivity and soreness.
  4. Gentle massage: Gentle massage of the nipples and areolas works to stimulate blood circulation and reduce sensitivity in this area.
  5. Avoid some products: The constant use of harsh soaps, detergents or chemical products can irritate the skin tissue of the nipples. Opt for mild and natural products.

When to Consult a Professional about Nipple Sore in Pregnancy?

It is important to watch for certain signs in which pain requires the attention of a medical professional. Some cases in which you should consult a professional may present symptoms such as:

  1. Intense and persistent pain that does not improve with simple methods.
  2. Redness, swelling or warmth around the nipples, this could indicate an infection.
  3. Abnormal nipple discharge, especially if blood or pus appears.
  4. Alterations in the skin texture of the nipples, such as ulcers or sores.
  5. Fever that is accompanied by pain.
  6. Feeling of discomfort or appearance of lumps, which could be related to breast cancer.

These types of cases could signal complications that require urgent medical treatment. If you are experiencing nipple pain along with other symptoms such as fever, extreme fatigue, or any other changes in your health that concern you, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional to receive a proper evaluation and treatment plan, if necessary.

If you think that the pain in your nipples may be a sign of pregnancy or if you are pregnant and suffer from persistent and intense pain in this area you can schedule a consultation with our specialists.