Causes For Dark Nipples In Pregnancy

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Are you pregnant? Are you worried about the physical changes that are taking place in your body? It is true that pregnancy brings an immense joy to a woman and, at the same time, she has to face many hurdles as well.

During pregnancy, one of the most difficult things is to deal with the sudden physical changes that happen to your body.

There are numerous changes that take place in your body during pregnancy, and one of the most noticeable changes can be seen in your breasts and nipples.

The moment you conceive, within a few days, you can notice your breasts becoming tender and enlarged. You can also notice that your nipples have become darker.

However, have you ever thought what causes dark nipples during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, there is a sudden increase in some hormones; and due to this reason, you can notice dark nipples and they continue to get darker as your pregnancy advances.

Some women can notice the colour change during the first or second week of conception. Sometimes, besides darkening, the nipples may also grow larger or become more prominent.

Although your nipples get darker during pregnancy, you do not have to be frightened because this condition is absolutely normal.

This article emphasises on what causes dark nipples during pregnancy. Read on to know about the numerous reasons for dark nipples in pregnancy:

Hormones
The first and foremost reason what causes dark nipples during pregnancy is the “hormones”. The oestrogen and progesterone are the main reasons, due to which your body produces more pigment.

Owing to this reason, a majority of women have dark patches and splotches throughout their bodies.

These hormones are also responsible for the development of tender breasts, widened areolas, swelled breasts, colostrum leakage, and several other changes that may occur to your breasts during pregnancy.

Increased Melanin
Generally, the pregnancy hormones are responsible for the darkening of your nipples. These hormones promote a momentary increase of melanin in your body.

It is the melanin pigment that gives colour to your eyes, hair and skin. An increased amount of melanin means your skin may turn darker, especially in the areas that are abound with this pigment such as freckles, nipples and scars.

Other Reasons
Sometimes, menstruation, ageing or a number of medicines can also be some of the other reasons that may cause dark nipples.

In some rare cases, dark nipples can also be caused by some serious problem. If the dark colour of your nipples comes with redness, pain or bleeding, then it’s high time you should consult your doctor.

Evolutionary Adaptation
One of the reasons for dark nipples in pregnancy may be a developmental or evolutionary adaptation.

It is because the vision of a newly born infant is hazy and, therefore, a darker nipple would be easier for him/her to spot clearly.

How To Treat Dark Nipples
You don’t have to worry much about the dark nipples. Generally, dark nipples get back their normal colour after your delivery. Sometimes, they remain dark until you stop breastfeeding.

Some women experience a permanent darkening of the nipples. There are several medicated creams that are available to reduce the darkness of the nipple area.

However, always talk to your doctor before you apply any kind of an ointment or a cream on your nipples.