Patient's question:
Main symptoms: Nipple inversion Onset time: Breastfeeding Period Test results:Doctor's answer:
Disease Analysis: The female nipple does not protrude from the surface of the areola, and may even be into the skin, appearing like a crater. This condition is known as nipple inversion. Of course, the degree of nipple inversion varies from person to person. Mild cases only show varying degrees of nipple retraction, and the nipple can be pushed out by hand or with negative pressure suction. Severe cases are completely submerged in the skin and cannot be pushed out, often growing in the opposite direction. Even if these inverted nipples are pushed out, they are generally small. There is often no distinct nipple neck.Advice: Nipple inversion can be classified into three categories based on its depth:
1. Partial nipple inversion: The nipple neck is present and can be easily pushed out. After being pushed out, the nipple size is similar to that of a normal person.
2. Complete nipple inversion: The nipple is fully submerged in the areola but can be pushed out by hand. The nipple is smaller than normal and usually lacks a nipple neck.
3. Complete in the areola: The inverted nipple cannot be pushed out.
Prognosis and Care: Correcting and preventing nipple inversion is important. A breast is the focus of a woman's beauty, and the nipple is the "delicate point" of that focus. If a woman discovers nipple inversion, she should correct it promptly. Depending on the situation, the following methods can be used:
1. Manual traction. During the important period of breast development in adolescence, frequent traction of the nipple can make the breasts more prominent, increase the supporting force of the surrounding skin, and help "shape" the nipples. Do this several times a day. Over time, the nipples will naturally protrude outward. If they cannot be pulled out, first gently push the skin near the nipple outward.
2. Suction therapy. After pregnancy, use a breast pump to suction the nipples several times a day, utilizing the negative pressure to promote nipple protrusion.
3. Nipple corrector. This is used to treat flat or inverted nipples. Women with nipple inversion in their immediate family (such as mothers or aunts) should be the focus of prevention. For girls with a genetic tendency, the mother can gently pull the small nipple outward 1-2 times a day after birth. Be sure to be gentle, and it is best to have an experienced person perform the action. This will make the infant's nipple appear as a small green bean or small round shape protruding from the skin, greatly reducing the chance of future nipple inversion.
Second, pay attention to clothing. Undergarments should be made of cotton and should be changed and washed frequently, exposed to sunlight. If the nipple shows signs of redness or cracking, the undergarments should be steamed and disinfected. Teenage girls should not wear bras too early.
Third, prevent compression. Undergarments and bras should be properly fitted and not too tight. For teenage girls with larger breasts, it is especially important to ensure that the breasts are loose. For girls with a habit of sleeping on their stomach, this habit should be corrected promptly to prevent the nipples from being compressed, which could worsen nipple inversion.
Mothers with nipple inversion should pay special attention to the health and hygiene of their nipples after giving birth. For mild inversion, increasing the frequency of infant sucking and protecting the nipple while paying attention to cleaning after breastfeeding can prevent infection. If redness or swelling occurs, seek medical attention promptly to prevent mastitis.
Use a nipple corrector.