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Cathy Enns
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Help for Inverted Nipples

Whether you're concerned about breastfeeding successfully or just a bit embarrassed in intimate situations, you should know there is help for inverted nipples. In most cases, a simple, nearly painless procedure can bring nipples out of hiding.

Inverted nipples sink inward toward the breast instead of pointing outward. There are varying levels of severity, starting with those that "come out" (or become "everted"), with stimulation or cold temperatures. These are nipples some people call "shy nipples." In the most severe cases, nipples are firmly inverted and never project outward. Women with shy nipples are often successful in breastfeeding, while women whose nipples are difficult or impossible to evert tend to struggle to breastfeed successfully.

Breastfeeding itself can cause nipple inversion if significant scar tissue builds up over time. However, in most cases inverted nipples are present at birth. Many women have inverted nipples on both breasts, occasionally only one nipple is inverted.

To correct inverted nipples, a physician will snip tissue or small fiber strands that pull the nipple inward. Care must be taken to leave all milk ducts intact.

We value and respect the experiences of all of our HerWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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