Like the shape of the breast and the areola, the dark area surrounding the nipples, the latter are different from one person to another. Nipples vary in shape, size, color and direction. Some of the most common variations include:
Nodules : The small nodules around the areola, called the Montgomery glands, are most noticeable in some nipples.
Exiting : inverted nipples are raised and protrude from the areolas despite stimulation.
Inserted from the inside: pulled from the inside instead of coming out like raised nipples.
Flat: flat nipples are at the level of the areola, although they can be raised with stimulation.
Hairy: it is quite normal for hair to grow around the nipples and some have more than others.
Protruding: stay upright, longer than protruding nipples, even without stimulation.
Swollen: both the areola and the nipple are raised.
"Supernumerary": having an extra nipple . It is very normal.
Mixed: vary in direction.
Small nipples
Big nipples
You may notice changes in the size, shape and color of the breast over time. Often, these changes are related to hormonal fluctuations, aging, or other natural phenomena. However, there are some symptoms that can be a sign of a health condition, such as:
- unexplained tenderness or pain
- unexplained redness or bruising
- abnormal or bloody secretion
- lumps or swelling in the breast tissue
- a sudden change
Sources: Cosmopolitan, Healthline
