11 Reasons Why You Have Itchy Breasts

#1 Hormonal Changes

Let's begin with a benign reason.

Hormonal changes observed during PMS is often the culprit behind itching breasts and nipples. And this is usually accompanied by an annoying tenderness in this location.

So if you are struck by an intense case of nipple itches a few days before your period date, then don't worry. They will disappear in time.

#2 Contact Dermatitis

As mentioned in the introduction, the most common cause of breast itches is allergic reaction to cosmetics, body lotions, perfumes, and topical medications, like steroids. And the symptoms of this can range from simple itching to red, inflamed rashes that ooze and crust over.

#3 Atopic Dermatitis

Another benign breast condition that leads to itchiness in your breasts is atopic dermatitis, a.k.a eczema of the breast (which is an autoimmune disorder of the skin and not infectious).

Common triggers of this condition include dry skin, swimming in water for too long, stress, and allergic reactions.

And while the red, oozing patches and scales can be really disgusting to look at, they are not contagious and can be cured by immune-suppressing medications, like corticosteroids.

Just remember not to self-medicate. That's the most dangerous thing you can do!

#4 Jogger’s Nipples

If you are an athletic woman who loves to work out and jog, then your nipples and breasts might be itching because of friction burns.

This is a common phenomenon and occurs when you work out while wearing ill-fitting bras, which fail to prevent your breasts from shuffling around and rubbing against the cloth.

So if you have jogger's nipple burns, the simple solution is to air out your breasts and buy a good sports bra that fits you perfectly.

#5 Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes your breasts to enlarge so that they are capable of producing anadequate amount of milk for your baby.

Unfortunately, this rapid change stretches out the skin over your breast, which leads to persistent itching.

#6 Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is uncomfortable, and even the most experienced mothers with multiple children complain of itching and pain during this period.

This is because suckling produces a lot of friction over the sensitive skin of your nipples, which leads to friction burns.

#7 After Breast Enhancement Surgery

What a celebrity does one day, becomes a fashion statement the next. And breast enhancement is no different.

So if you are afashion-forward woman and have undergone breast augmentation surgery, then don't worry. Your breasts will stop itching once they heal and take up the implants.

But if this itchiness is accompanied by red rashes, then consult your doctor because you might be allergic to the post-surgical medication.

#8 Fungal Infection

Now we are moving on to the more serious reasons behind itchy breasts. And the first one on that list is fungal-infection.

Caused by Candida, this infection usually involves the crease under and between your breasts because these areas are known to accumulate a lot of sweat and dirt over the day (especially during hot and humid seasons). But the infection can quickly spread to the surface of your breast as well.

Other symptoms include pain, redness, sores, and blisters.

#9 Mastitis

Inflammation of your breast glands caused by infection is caused mastitis. It leads to redness, itching, pain, and warmth in the affected area of the breast. And it is a very common problem faced by breastfeeding women.

#10 Paget’s Disease of the Nipple

Paget's disease of the nipple is a rare form of breast cancer. And it affects both the nipple and the surrounding areas of the breast.

Symptoms of this condition are similar to the symptoms of allergic dermatitis.

#11 Breast Cancer

Itching breasts are not the most common symptom of breast cancer. But the skin over cancerous tumors is known to become red, itchy, and painful over time.