Patient's question:
Can the nipple regenerate if it decays? Can it be cured?Doctor's answer:
Nipple retraction mainly has the following four harmful effects: First, the nipple is deeply recessed into the areola skin, and the local concave area is not cleaned for a long time. Secretions and pollutants cannot be removed, resulting in an odor, which easily causes inflammation of the nipple and areola, even bleeding, erosion, and the formation of chronic inflammation. Second, the nipple cannot be exposed, making it impossible for the mother to breastfeed, and the baby cannot suck milk, thus affecting the baby's development. Third, if the milk flow is not smooth, it can lead to blocked milk ducts, milk accumulation, and an increased risk of acute mastitis and breast abscesses. If the mother never breastfeeds, it can also increase the risk of breast tumors. Fourth, nipple retraction can damage the beauty of the female chest, losing its natural curves. Therefore, it is necessary to actively prevent and treat nipple retraction. Teenage girls should wear bras of appropriate sizes according to the size of their breasts to ensure proper nipple development. A hole can be made in the front of the bra at the corresponding position of the nipple, so that when worn, it can gently push the retracted nipple out. Nipple retraction can be corrected, and the timing for correction should be before childbirth. Mild nipple retraction can be treated conservatively first. Wash the nipple with warm water twice a day, and then gently pull the retracted nipple outward. Avoid excessive force during pulling to prevent nipple injury. Alternatively, during bathing, gently pull the nipple outward while rubbing it, and repeat the pulling action to make the nipple protrude. If it cannot be pulled out, place the thumbs on both sides of the nipple and push back and forth with force, three times a day, each time in five upward, downward, leftward, and rightward movements. After marriage, the husband can suck the retracted nipple of his wife. This sucking not only helps correct nipple retraction but also prevents breast inflammation and can also enhance marital harmony. If the nipple retraction is not corrected before childbirth, a glass eye dropper bottle can be used. The thick end is placed over the nipple, and the thin end is fitted with a rubber tube connected to a syringe. Air is extracted from the bottle to create negative pressure, which pulls the nipple out. After a few minutes, remove the bottle and manually pull the nipple to prevent it from retracting again. This method can be repeated if necessary.