Foreword: this is the continuation of our response to the letter of Razzie of DDS regarding her concerns on the itching of her nipples.
DEAR Razzie of DDS,
Now, as we continue with your concerns, here are more interesting reasons why nipples itch.
5. Friction, friction, friction
Try to check your clothing, especially your bra. If they rub against your nipples when you exercise or if they are too tight, they can chafe your nipples. If this is the case, there could still be itchiness and burning sensation, but, there is more pain than itchiness. So, if ever this happens, apply some petroleum jelly to the area before you do your workouts to protect them from irritation. Be sure also that your bra fits well. If they don't, then, keep away from them for they will harm you instead. So, be sure to find the bra with the perfect fit.
6. Pregnancy
Well, if you are on a family way, you can blame a host of symptoms like weight gain, morning sickness, hormone swings and itchy nipples to your hormonal changes and the skin stretching as your breasts and nipples expand to ready yourself to nurse your baby. So, if you are pregnant, and this nipple itchiness is one of your concerns, then, you can just rub some coconut oil, cocoa butter or a lanolin ointment to help lessen the itch.
But, of course, all of these discomforts will just go away after your pregnancy will be over. So, just be patient and enjoy the moment even it gives you some pains because certainly, a bundle of joy is surely waiting for you ahead.
7. Breastfeeding woes
When you breastfeed, you might be able to get in touch with some of its woes. You may have milk residues, plugged milk ducts and problems when you latch your baby during feeding time. All of these can make your nipples itchy and in pain. So, when you have this around, try to keep the area clean and dry, but, keep on pumping or nursing your baby. You can also use some lanolin ointment and silicone gel pads that are cooled in the refrigerator to help your pains go away.
Oh, oh, I would have wanted to talk more, but, again, since we are running of space for now, so, let me then, continue this in my next issue. Until then again!
Dr. Fritz
*****
Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and medical acupuncture. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, "healthy is sexy secrets niDr. Fritz." She is also a faculty in a college of pharmacy. For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o SunStar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo building, Jacinto St., Davao City, (former Department of Foreign Affairs Office), across Ateneo de Davao University and beside Holy Child School of Davao, or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don't wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.