Sore nipples, usually accompanied by tenderness in the breasts are a common problem, experienced by many women at some time of the other, during the reproductive cycle. Many people believe that sore nipples are a symptom of pregnancy. While this is true to some extent, soreness in the nipples does not always mean that the woman is pregnant. This sensation can be a bit worrisome for some women; however, it does not mean that there is a serious problem. In fact sore breasts could be an indication of many things, depending upon the changes that are taking place within the woman's body. In order to understand what the different causes for sore nipples are, it is important to learn a few things about the hormonal changes that take place within the body.

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During the course of the menstrual cycle, there are two hormones within the woman's body that are very important. It is the estrogen that does most of the work before ovulation and progesterone that starts to act around the ovulation time. Progesterone causes the body to retain water. The objective of this is that the uterus needs to be primed for a potential pregnancy, by providing water and food. However, the effect of this preparation is felt through the entire body. The adverse effect of this is more severe in some women, as compared to the others; some of them may also find it difficult to get into their fitting clothes during the second half of their cycle. During the cycle the water gets stored in the breast tissues, causing them to stretch, which is one of the causes of painful breasts and sore nipples.

Remedies for Sore Nipples
Regardless of what the causes of sore nipples are, this problem can be quite an uncomfortable one. When the discomfort gets too much, many women seek medical attention, to help them get rid of the problem. In case it is determined that the sore nipples are not the result of a serious underlying condition and do not require any medical treatment, your health care provider may advise you to use topical ointments, as well as certain home remedies for sore nipples. Women who are breastfeeding are often advised to try out certain helpful remedies so that they do not need to discontinue nursing their babies. Given below are some of the most highly recommended remedies for sore nipples:

Apply a cool compress on to your nipples, to bring down the swelling and to alleviate any of the other symptoms. Wrap a few cubes of ice in a towel and apply this on to the nipples, for around 10 minutes or so.

Wear the right bra, which fits well and provides an adequate amount of support to your breasts. It is important to ensure that a proper bra is worn, especially while engaging in any physical activity. It is advisable to remove the bra at night, just before bedtime.

Change your bras every day and make sure that you wash them thoroughly before you wear them next. Harsh chemicals could irritate the skin on your nipples and breasts, leading to sore nipples. Therefore, it is essential for you to use a mild, yet good laundry detergent.

To cleanse your skin only use soaps and body washes that are mild and completely free of any harmful or harsh ingredients.

Make sure that the nipple is clean and dry at all times. The skin on the area should be wiped thoroughly after a shower.

High levels of stress and anxiety have been known to increase soreness in the nipples and breasts. Therefore, relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing or even massage therapy can be very effective in resolving the problem.