Pointy nipples are one variation in a range of possibilities.
The average height of a nipple is 9 to 10 millimeters (roughly 1/3 of an inch).
People with flat nipples may experience some difficulty with breastfeeding.
Verywell / JR Bee
Using a breast pump or breast shells before breastfeeding or nipple shields while nursing can also help.
Inverted Nipples
Instead of protruding, inverted nipples are tucked below the skin’s surface.
As a result, they can appear dented or sucked in.
Inverted nipples can often protrude when gently stimulated.
Some inverted nipples, however, will never protrude even with stimulation.
Nipple inversion can be something someone is born with.
Although harmless, inverted nipples can make breastfeeding difficult.
Unclassified Nipples
Unclassified nipples are those that don’t fit neatly into the above-listed categories.
It can mean that there are unilateral (one-sided) variations in your nipples.
For example, one nipple may be protruding and the other flat.
However, they could also be a sign of a serious medical condition.
Unilateral puckering, for instance, could be asign of breast cancer.
Even so, some people may seek surgical correction for cosmetic reasons.
Nipple Size
Nipple sizescan vary not only from person to person but also by biological sex.
They can also change in size under the influence ofestrogenandprogesterone.
In females, it is not uncommon for nipples to get bigger during menstruation or pregnancy.
Both estrogen and progesterone draw fluid into the breasts, making nipples feel swollen and tender.
In older males, the nipple and breasts may get larger due to a common aging-related condition calledgynecomastia.
Studies suggest that female nipples are around 36% larger thannipples in males.
The color usually matches that of the areola.
While suntanning can cause nipples to darken, other conditions can cause transient or permanent changes in nipple color.
Hyperkeratosis can occur for no known reason but can sometimes be the result ofhormonal birth controlor medications like spironolactone.
Nipple Texture
Nipples can also vary and change in texture.
By contrast, the aging-related loss ofcollagencan cause nipples to soften and sag.
It is also not uncommon to havepimple-like bumps on your nipples.
These are due to glands calledMontgomery tubercleslocated on the nipple and areola.
In most cases, hairy nipples are not a cause for concern.
Shaving nipples can result in nicks,ingrown hairs, and possible infection.
Plucking, waxing/sugaring, electrolysis, or laser treatments are good removal options to consider.
The same applies if your nipples change with age due to the loss of collagen and changes in hormones.
At What Age Do Breasts Develop?
Breast growth typically begins around the age of 10 or 11.
However, any time between 7 and 13 is considered perfectly normal.
During puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, hormonal fluctuations can affect nipple appearance and sensitivity.
Notify your healthcare provider of any nipple changes, especially if they occur suddenly or only on one side.
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