A nipple sore or crack may appear with tenderness, discharge, crusting or soreness. This page summarizes common causes, when to seek clinical assessment, and which specialties can assist. It is intended for general information, not for diagnosis or personalized medical advice.
Nipple sores can result from simple skin irritation or contact dermatitis (allergic or irritant), fungal or bacterial infection, eczema, duct ectasia or hyperkeratosis. Repeated friction or trauma—including from clothing or infant latch—can produce cracks. Rarely, systemic diseases or underlying breast pathology cause persistent skin changes. Determining the cause usually requires a clinician’s assessment.
During breastfeeding, an incorrect latch, repeated mechanical trauma or frequent superficial infections commonly lead to nipple pain and sores. Support from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist can help review technique and positioning. If there is heavy bleeding, marked change in milk flow, or severe pain, contact a healthcare professional promptly.
Initial assessment can be undertaken by Family Medicine, Dermatology or Obstetrics & Gynecology. If infection is suspected, Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology may be involved. Clinicians take a history and perform a physical exam; they may request swabs/cultures, dermatoscopy or imaging if there is concern about deeper breast pathology.
Most nipple sores are managed with routine outpatient evaluation. Seek urgent care or emergency services if you have high fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe unrelieved pain, large amounts of purulent discharge, heavy bleeding from the lesion, or overall worsening condition. These signs warrant prompt clinical assessment.
Gentle hygiene, avoiding harsh soaps and fragranced products, wearing breathable, well‑fitting bras, and reducing repetitive friction may ease symptoms. Employed measures should be discussed with a clinician before starting. For people who breastfeed, a lactation consultant can suggest positioning changes to reduce trauma.
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