female blueprint. It isn’t until about 60 days where testosterone kicks in and changes the genetic activity to that of a boy.”
5. The little bumps are usually harmless.
Take a good look at your nipples and you’ll notice there is quite a bit of texture and bumps. According to ob-gyn Dr. Alyssa Dweck, “This is totally normal. Those bumps on the areola can be hair follicles, ducts, or oil glands that produce lubricating fluid.” So don’t go squeezing, poking and prodding at them. It isn’t acne. If the bumps are discolored and red, or part of a rash then you should consult a doctor. According Dr. Dweck, “A rare form of breast cancer called Paget’s disease can present itself as a red bump or rash on the nipple or areola.”
Signs of nipple problems
You might see discharge, such as pus or a white, watery fluid. You may also feel pain, itchiness, or swelling in your nipples. See your doctor right away if you have any discharge at all or discomfort that lasts for more than a few days.
You may also notice changes in the shape of your nipple or areola, which is the skin around your nipple. These changes may include puckering or dimpling of the skin. Always discuss changes like this with your doctor.
In women, hormone fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause monthly discomfort that lasts for a few days. You should talk to your doctor if it bothers you.
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Causes of nipple problems
There are a variety of circumstances that could lead to nipple problems, including:
– pregnancy
– infections
– small, benign, or noncancerous, tumors
– hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid
– ectasia, which is a widening of the milk ducts
– a pituitary gland tumor
– Paget’s disease of the breast
– an injury to the breast tissue