Your nipples can hurt when touched even if you are not pregnant due to several possible reasons:
- Hormonal changes related to your menstrual cycle can lead to breast and nipple tenderness particularly a few days before your period due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels.
- Friction or irritation from clothing such as tight shirts, poorly fitted bras, or physical activities like running causing rubbing can cause soreness or painful nipples.
- Skin conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis caused by exposure to irritating substances (detergents, soaps, lotions) can make nipples hurt and itch.
- Infections of the breast or nipple area including bacterial or yeast infections may cause pain.
- Physical trauma or injury to the nipples from things like nipple piercings or sexual activity can cause pain.
- Rarely, nipple pain may be due to breast cancer or Paget’s disease of the breast, especially if accompanied by nipple changes such as discharge, flattening, or redness.
If the nipple pain is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms like nipple changes or discharge, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In summary, nipple pain when touched is commonly caused by hormonal fluctuations, friction, skin irritations, or infections, and less commonly by more serious conditions. Most causes are not related to pregnancy. Proper fitting bras, avoiding irritants, and medical evaluation if needed can help.
