Is it normal for the nipples to hurt during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a series of physiological changes that may cause nipple pain.

In early pregnancy, due to drastic hormonal changes in the body, especially increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, breast tissue proliferates and milk ducts dilate in preparation for breastfeeding. These changes may increase sensitivity in the nipple and areola area, and some pregnant women may experience nipple pain or tenderness. Additionally, as the breasts enlarge, the skin around the nipples may become stretched, causing discomfort in the nipple and areola region. Moreover, if a pregnant woman wears improperly fitting undergarments—either too tight or too loose—this can place additional pressure or cause friction on the nipples, exacerbating the pain.

Nipple pain can manifest in various ways, including mild stabbing pain, dull aching, or persistent discomfort. Pregnant women are advised to first choose loose, comfortable, and breathable undergarments to avoid compressing the nipples. At the same time, it is important to clean the breasts regularly, avoid using strongly irritating soap, keep the breast area dry to reduce the risk of infection.