Cracked Nipple (Nipple fissures): Causes, Signs, & Treatment

A cracked nipple, also known as a nipple fissure, is a small cut or split that develops on the nipple or surrounding skin. It can cause pain, irritation, and sometimes mild bleeding. Some women experience a cracked nipple in pregnancy due to hormonal changes that make the skin more sensitive and prone to dryness. Others may develop nipple cracks after delivery, especially during the early days of breastfeeding.

Although a cracked nipple during pregnancy can be uncomfortable, it is usually manageable with proper care, hygiene, and medical guidance when needed.

What Is a Cracked Nipple (Nipple Fissure)?

A cracked nipple, medically known as nipple fissure, is a small crack, cut, or sore that occurs in the nipple area and the surrounding areola. These cracks may take the form of dry and chapped skin, which may be more severe in some cases.

When one experiences nipple fissures, they may experience pain, irritation, and sensitivity in the breast area. In some cases, the cracks may even bleed, especially if they are not well taken care of.

A cracked nipple in pregnancy can occur due to hormonal changes be attributed to the hormonal changes and the resulting dry skin. However, nipple fissures may also be experienced after delivery, especially in the initial stages of breastfeeding, as the nipples take time to adjust to the frequent breastfeeding activities.

Is It Common to Have Cracked Nipples During Pregnancy?

Yes, some women may experience nipple cracks during pregnancy. This is attributed to the hormonal changes in the body, which prepare the breast for breastfeeding. The nipples become more sensitive during this time.

The skin around the nipples also becomes dry, itchy, or irritated. As the body becomes accustomed to the changes, women may also experience sore or cracked nipples.

Even though crack nipple during pregnancy are not experienced by everyone, it is not uncommon either. The symptoms experienced during this time are normally mild and easy to manage with appropriate care and hygiene practices.

Causes of Cracked Nipple in Pregnancy

There are various causes of cracked nipples during pregnancy. Understanding the causes can help women prevent the condition and ensure the skin around the nipple remains protected from irritation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect the elasticity and sensitivity of the skin. This causes the skin around the nipples to become irritated and cracked.

Dry Skin

The lack of moisture in the skin around the nipples causes the skin to become dry, flaky, and eventually cracked.

Friction from Clothing

Wearing clothes that are too tight or made from scratchy fabrics causes friction around the nipples, resulting in irritation and cracked skin.

Skin Conditions

Some skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis, also occur around the nipples, leading to cracked skin.

Infection

Fungal or bacterial infections may sometimes lead to pain, redness, and cracking of the nipples, especially when the skin is compromised.

Crack Nipple During Pregnancy: Symptoms to Watch For

If a woman is having a cracked nipple during pregnancy, she is likely to experience the following symptoms:

Painful or sore nipples

Presence of cracks or small cuts on the nipples

Presence of redness or irritation

Presence of dry skin flakes around the nipples

Mild bleeding in severe cases

If the skin becomes infected, the symptoms will include:

Swelling of the skin

Increase in pain

Presence of discharge from the nipples

Nipple Cracks After Delivery

Nipple fissures during pregnancy occur, but are more common after delivery during breastfeeding. Cracked nipples occur in many women during the postpartum period when the woman is breastfeeding the baby. This is mainly due to the frequent breastfeeding sessions when the baby is constantly sucking the nipples during the sessions.

The common causes include:

Improper baby latching during breastfeeding sessions

Frequent breastfeeding sessions

Presence of excess moisture around the nipples

Improper usage of the breast pumps

When the baby fails to latch properly during breastfeeding sessions, the nipples experience excessive pressure from the baby's sucking, leading to pain and cracks during the process.

How to Treat Cracked Nipples During Pregnancy

Treating cracked nipple in pregnancy focuses on protecting the skin and reducing irritation.

Keep the Area Moisturised

Using gentle, doctor-recommended moisturisers can help prevent dryness and support healing.

Wear Comfortable Bras

Soft, breathable cotton bras reduce friction and allow the skin to breathe.

Avoid Harsh Soaps

Strong soaps and chemical products can dry out the skin and worsen cracking.

Maintain Proper Hygiene

Keeping the nipple area clean and dry helps prevent infections.

Seek Medical Advice

If the cracks become painful or do not heal, consulting a doctor is recommended for proper treatment.

Book an online appointment with Dr. Sudhamathy Kannan for Pregnancy & Gynecology related issues.

Treatment for Nipple Cracks After Delivery

Women suffering from nipple cracks after delivery can seek the following treatments to alleviate their condition:

Some of the treatments that can help alleviate the condition are as follows:

Ensure proper breastfeeding position

Applying a small amount of breast milk to the nipple after feeding

Use doctor-recommended creams

Allow the nipples to air dry

Take short breaks while breastfeeding

The use of proper breastfeeding techniques is one of the best ways to avoid further damage to the nipples.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Even though women can alleviate the condition with proper care, it is always wise to seek medical attention in the following cases:

Severe pain while breastfeeding

Bleeding from the nipples

Signs of infection such as swelling, fever, or pus
Cracks that do not heal after a few days

The Cloudnine Advantage

Cloudnine’s woman-first approach sets it apart by offering specialised women’s healthcare services, particularly strong support and guidance for breastfeeding. The hospital offers end-to-end care services for pregnant women, delivery, and the post-delivery period. It also offers lactation support to pregnant women. Its team of experienced lactation consultants, specialists, and advanced medical facilities ensures comprehensive care and personalised guidance for every patient.

Conclusion

Cracked nipples or nipple fissures are a common concern among pregnant women and new mothers. During the pregnancy period, the condition is caused by changes in hormones, dry nipples, or friction. After giving birth, the condition is usually caused by breastfeeding issues, such as improper latch. Although the condition is uncomfortable, it can be managed with proper care, hygiene, and medical advice. This can be achieved by moisturising the nipples, wearing comfortable clothes, and using proper breastfeeding techniques. In cases where the condition persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention to diagnose the condition correctly. In most cases, the condition is not serious, and with proper care, the condition disappears in no time.

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