Dry Nipples: Reasons and Treatments

Ever wondered why your nipples or breasts itch? Does this feeling come and go? There are many reasons why your nipples may itch at any given time. So let’s explore those possibilities.

Causes

Hormonal Changes– During your monthly cycle or pregnancy, hormones can cause a complete upheaval to the female system. These changes can also cause dry and itchy nipples. Sensitivity and enlargement of the breasts cause stretching or even cracking in the nipple area. Even a small rash or pimples may break out on them due to these changes.

Harsh Soaps– Interruption of the production of your natural body oils, with the use of harsh chemicals, may result in dry and itchy breasts. Some soaps and shower gels that are commercially made may cause this irritation to occur. Try more natural based products, made with oils that are healthy for the skin’s hydration. Check out Jus Jovi Natural Body Care for the natural soap benefits.

Irritation from fabrics– This happens a lot after you sweat, maybe from playing sports or working out, or doing whatever to make you sweat. Those synthetic fibers, such as nylon and polyester, may cause some dryness due to their lack of breathability. If you can avoid doing those type of activities in that type of fabric may ease the irritation.

Breastfeeding– Constant friction from your newborn trying to find the best way to latch on, is the major cause of dryness and cracking of the nipple. Make sure your baby is latching on correctly quickly or this can irritation can lead to cuts and lots of pain. 

Another more serious issue of having dry nipples is called Paget’s Disease. This disease is a rare form of cancer that can cause dry, flaky or cracked aerolas.

Treatments

Majority of these treatments can be done by providing moisture to the affected area. Making sure that your breasts, especially your nipples, are kept hydrated is very important for them.

• Using topical creams can be a bit complex, as the chemical may actually cause an opposite reaction to what you want. If you experience any kind of inflammation, redness, intensified rash or severe reaction to the topical cream, then please contact your doctor immediately.
• The use of oils like olive or jojoba oil will help to reduce dryness and cracking naturally and keep the skin around the areola hydrated. Use one or two drops, especially after a shower to keep the skin moisturized and with continuous use, the dryness will go away.
• Using your own breast milk can help to heal cracked nipples as well. Just apply a bit of breast milk to the affected area before and after breastfeeding to keep your breasts healthy for your baby.

If you find that the above methods don’t work and the dryness persists, it may be best to go and see your doctor to find out what else is going.

Ladies, just know that having dry or cracked nipples, especially in the winter, is quite normal during a woman’s life. This is due to the lack of moisture in the atmosphere and/or your grooming rituals. Try different methods to see which one works best for you and keep in mind the time it may take to heal.