Why do nipples invert?

Patient's question:

I've had my baby for a week now. I have milk, but the baby can't suck it out. My breasts are swollen and painful. I can express milk by hand, and it feels shorter than others', only to be buried back under the skin shortly after. It wasn't until I went to the hospital for a thorough check that I found out I have inverted nipples.
What kind of help I need: Why do inverted nipples happen?

Doctor's answer:

The nipple is embedded in the areola, not only appearing unattractive but also prone to accumulating dirt or oil due to the concave nipple, which can cause itching, eczema, or inflammation. Manual traction: Gently pull the nipple out of the skin by oneself, pinching the nipple horizontally or transversely with the thumb and index finger, and then pulling it outward continuously or intermittently. Each session lasts about 30 minutes, alternating between both nipples. Perform 3-5 times daily.
Instrumental traction: Using a manual or electric breast pump to apply negative pressure and draw the nipple out. Similarly, the nipple can be pulled continuously or intermittently for 30 minutes per session, alternating between both nipples. Perform 3-5 times daily.
Both of these correction methods can yield good results after two months.

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