Published on: 7/4/2025
How can I tell if itchy nipples are due to my period or pregnancy?
Itchy nipples can be caused by hormonal changes during your period or pregnancy. Both situations involve changes in estrogen levels, which can increase itchiness.
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Explanation
Itchy nipples can be confusing because they can happen during both your period and pregnancy. Both of these situations involve changes in your body's hormones.
Period: During your menstrual cycle, estrogen levels can change. This change can make your skin more sensitive and itchy, including your nipples.
Pregnancy: When you're pregnant, your body makes more estrogen and other hormones. These can cause your skin to stretch and become itchy.
In both cases, the itchiness is related to estrogen, a hormone that can make your skin more sensitive to itching. If you're unsure whether your itchy nipples are due to your period or pregnancy, consider other symptoms you might be experiencing and consult a healthcare provider for a more accurate assessment.
(References)
- Takanami K, Uta D, Matsuda KI, Kawata M, Carstens E, Sakamoto T, & Sakamoto H. (2021). Estrogens influence female itch sensitivity via the spinal .... Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 8346901.
- Kar S, Krishnan A, & Shivkumar PV. (2012). Pregnancy and Skin - PMC. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of India, 3444563.
- Laageide L, Radke S, Santillan D, Ten Eyck P, & Powers J. (2021). Postpartum Nipple Symptoms: Risk Factors and .... Breastfeeding Medicine, 8418445.
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