Causes of Inverted Nipple(Nipple Retraction), Ways to Diagnose & Deal

An inverted nipple(Nipple Retraction) is a state in which the nipple points inward rather than outwards. Circumstances that lead to inflammation or scars of tissues at the back of the nipple can subsequently result in an inverted nipple. Any change or deviation from ‘normal’ when it comes to the breasts can immediately press the panic button in your mind. Inverted nipples are, in fact, more common than you think. Read on to find out more about this condition, its causes, and some of the symptoms that you must immediately get help for. 

What Are Inverted Nipples?

Inverted nipple, also known as nipple retraction is a state in which the nipple points inward rather than outwards. Circumstances that lead to inflammation or scars of tissues at the back of the nipple can subsequently result in an inverted nipple.

In toddlers inverted baby nipple may arise due to concealed tissues incapable of multiplying at the required rate; the consequence is nipple pulled inwards. The nipples are likely to get normal when your juvenile hits puberty.

What Causes Inverted Nipples?

Here are some of the common causes of inverted nipples:

1. Nipple infection caused by breast surgery or piercing as well as inflammation contributes to the inverted nipple.
2. These can be present since birth, these do not elucidate any sort of disease nor any health hazard.
3. Breastfeeding after pregnancy makes breasts experience breast sagging; areolas are expanded which give away inverted nipples.

How to Diagnose Inverted Nipples?

When inverted nipples do not possess any health threat, they don’t indicate any symptoms. These can be analyzed simply by a pinch to examine whether it is right or not. However, if it has an unhealthy and potential disease associated with it, it will show symptoms. Sign of inverted nipple which can be a sign of threat are as follows:

1. Presence of lump beneath or near the nipple.
2. If you see redness or any other skin change like flaking.
3. Blood or any other fluid discharge from breasts apart from milk.
4. Sore nipple might have the possibility of affecting other tissues nearby.

Tips For Breastfeeding With Inverted Nipples

If you are a breastfeeding mother, it is natural that you might be concerned about feeding your baby with inverted nipples. But here are some tips to help you:

1. Get help: You can seek assistance from a lactation consultant, who can guide you appropriately and boost your confidence.
2. Express a little: Removing a small amount of breast milk before feeding your child can help. You can also try pumping the milk through hands, but only a little.
3. Help Baby latch-on: Hold and squeeze the skin near nipples through your fingers to create a “C” or “V” shape. This enables the younger one to feed properly with enhanced attachment.
4. Using a pump: Breast pump can be used to string out the nipples. Use it before feeding the toddler.

If you feel that your baby isn’t taking enough milk and his nutritional needs are not being met, please consult your doctor.

Inverted Nipple Treatment

How Are Inverted Nipples Treated? The suction device can be used for inverted nipple treatment which aids in bringing the tissues of the nipple at the required position. This method is beneficial in case of minor inversion caused due to muscle contraction. Furthermore, in the case of extravagant inversion, surgery for treatment is prescribed. You can consult a professional breastfeeding consultant in case of guidance.

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