Question: For a few years now I have noticed that my left nipple seems to invert. When my nipples get hard, the right one goes erect but the left one seems to invert. It's so embarrassing so I wont wear certain shirts that would make it more noticeable. Sometimes it will come out, or if I have my boyfriend *suck* it out. But should I be worried, is this something serious?Answer: An inverted nipple(s) is not a cause for a concern, as long as it has always been that way. If your nipples should change shape after puberty you should bring it to a doctor's attention; it could be an indication of infection or cancer.
Inverted nipples are not unusual and they are usually not a medical concern but they do cause women anxiety because women expect both of their nipples to project outward from the breast when erect. Of course there are women who are equally embarrassed by the fact that their nipples always project outward; they may wear padded or thick bras and loose tops to conceal them.
Inverted nipples can be corrected through surgery but my reference states it may prevent breast-feeding in the future. I personally would not recommend surgery.
Inverted nipples are caused by the connective tissues that hold the nipple in place being too short. You can stretch these tissues by using the technique described below from La Leche League International's book on breast-feeding.
"With the "Hoffman technique," draw an imaginary cross on the nipple. Place a thumb on each side of the nipple along one line of the cross. Your thumbs should be directly at the base of the nipple, not at the edge of the areola, the larger dark skin area surrounding the nipple. Press in firmly against the breast tissue and at the same time pull the thumbs away from each other. You'll be stretching out the nipple and loosening the tightness at the base, which will make the nipple move up and outward. Dr. Hoffman recommends that you repeat this stretch five times first thing in the morning, first along one of the imaginary lines of your cross, and then along the other. This preliminary step makes it easier for you to then grasp the nipple at the base and proceed with the pulling action described above.
To bring the nipple out, place a thumb and forefinger near the base of the nipple and gently press together. You'll be able to feel where the larger mass of the breast tissue ends and the nipple begins. Then, holding the nipple, slowly pull it out, and gently, turn it up then down [I believe they mean for you to twist the nipple clockwise then counter clockwise]. Do this exercise several times for each nipple, but only until it feels slightly uncomfortable, never painful. Gradually increase the number of nipple pulls, or rolls."
There are special little suction cups you can buy to correct inverted nipples but they are expensive, $100 for a set. Still cheaper than surgery and will not affect your ability to nurse. These little suction cups draw your nipple out gently as you wear them at night for up to three months. You can learn more at the links shown below.
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