During foreplay, nipples send signals to the brain that cause them to engorge with blood and expand. The areola may also swell.
If you experience breast/nipple pain that doesn’t stop after sexual activity, it’s best to see a doctor, especially if it’s accompanied by fever or nipple discharge. There are many possible causes of breast pain after sex, including:
Hormonal Changes
Breasts and nipples can be sore for a variety of reasons, including injury or friction (like from a tight bra or shirt) and hormonal changes. Girls and young women often feel their nipples get sore after sexual activity or during their period. If this pain is mild, over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief.
If the pain is severe, a visit to the doctor may be necessary. A physical exam, a review of symptoms and blood tests can help determine the cause.
For example, hormonal shifts that occur during menstruation and pregnancy can cause nipple and breast tenderness. During these times, estrogen and progesterone levels increase, which causes breast tissue to swell.
The nipples also prepare for milk production, so they become more pronounced and the areolas expand. This can be uncomfortable, especially during foreplay. Stress and certain medications can also trigger breast pain. Using a well-fitting bra, avoiding caffeine and avoiding hot or cold compresses can help reduce this pain. In addition, counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy can help address psychological issues that may be contributing to the pain.
Over-Stimulation
Whether from using a vibrator or just touching the wrong spot, overstimulation is the reason why your boobs feel sore. It happens when genital contact goes from feeling great to being uncomfortable or even numb, says sexologist Marla Renee Stewart. “The good news is that the numbness will usually go away on its own,” she tells Lovers. The numbness is caused by high levels of arousal paired with repetitive action, and it can happen just after an orgasm or just before.
It’s important to remember that sexual arousal is a whole-body experience, and it involves the breasts as well as the vagina and clitoris. When you’re arouses, your heart rate and blood pressure increase, which causes your nipples to engorge with blood. They become erect and the areola also swell. This is what signals your brain to release oxytocin, the love hormone that creates bonding during sexual intercourse. A recent study found that stimulating the nipples activates the same areas of the brain that are stimulated when you engage with your clitoris and vagina. This is why some people can orgasm from just nipple play alone.
Infections
Breast pain after sex can sometimes be a sign of an infection in the breast tissue. A bacterial infection, called mastitis or breast abscess, can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. It usually affects women who are breastfeeding, but it can also occur in non-lactating women and men. If the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as a fever or a swollen nipple, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Another common cause of breast pain is a simple allergic reaction. If your nipples are itchy and painful, try eliminating any products that contain perfumes, dyes, or chemicals. These can irritate your skin and cause redness, itchiness and even a rash. If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, take a close look at your nipples in good lighting. Look for dimpling or puckering, discharge from the nipples, and swollen or flaky skin. Also, note any chafing or irritation from your clothing, lotions, or laundry detergents. A dermatologist may recommend a soothing ointment or antibiotic to help relieve your discomfort. Identifying the underlying cause of your breast pain can help you avoid it in the future.
Hormonal Imbalances
A hormonal imbalance can lead to a variety of symptoms, including breast pain. The good news is that, if you suspect this is the case for you, there are ways to get it right again and feel your best.
It’s a well-known fact that many women blame their period for sore boobs, but it isn’t the only reason your breasts may hurt. It can also be a sign of something more serious, like an infection or cancer.
Hormones are like ingredients in a recipe, and sometimes our endocrine glands can get the wrong mix in. This leads to symptoms that range from mild to severe and can include breast pain after sex.
For example, birth control pills often increase the estrogen levels in a woman’s body and this can cause changes in breast tissue that lead to soreness or tenderness. Other medications and hormone replacement therapy can also cause this. This is why it’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience breast pain after sex. They can help you determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that will work for you.
Other Conditions
Breast pain after sex can be caused by many factors, including hormonal changes, physical trauma, infections and medical conditions. It is important to discuss any symptoms with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
A sore nipple can also be one of the first signs of pregnancy. If you are concerned that you may be pregnant, see a doctor right away to test for pregnancy.
If you are breastfeeding, a painful nipple can be a sign of mastitis, an infection that causes tenderness, itchiness and a burning sensation in the nipple area. If you suspect you have mastitis, talk to your GP about getting antibiotics and draining the pus.
Overall, breast pain after sex is fairly common and usually not something to worry about. However, if you have a persistent sore nipple and other associated symptoms such as fever or nipple discharge, seek immediate medical attention. Using a properly fitting bra, taking over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a warm compress to the affected area can help alleviate discomfort. Talking openly with your partner about sexual techniques that do not hurt or irritate the nipples can also improve your relationship and reduce any anxiety related to sexual activity.
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