Is nipple pain a sign of pregnancy?

Jul 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I remembered that we had unprotected sex last time, and my nipples have been sore for the past few days. I'm a bit worried—could nipple soreness be a sign of pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Nipple pain is not necessarily a sign of pregnancy. Although some women may experience nipple pain during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, it is not a definitive or exclusive symptom of pregnancy. Nipple pain may be caused by various factors, including but not limited to:

1. Hormonal fluctuations during ovulation and the premenstrual phase, which may cause breast congestion and nipple pain.

2. Breast conditions such as fibrocystic breast changes, acute mastitis, or breast tumors may also cause nipple pain.

3. External stimuli, such as nipple trauma or wearing ill-fitting undergarments, may also lead to pain.

Therefore, one cannot determine pregnancy solely based on nipple pain. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is recommended to take a home pregnancy test or visit a hospital for a blood hCG test to confirm the diagnosis.