Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Why am I lactating after getting my nipples pierced?

Why am I lactating after getting my nipples pierced?

Understanding Lactation After Nipple Piercing
Experiencing lactation after getting your nipples pierced can be surprising and may raise several questions about the relationship between nipple piercings and breast milk production. While nipple piercings are a popular form of body modification, they can have various effects on the body, including potential impacts on lactation.
The Mechanism Behind Lactation
Lactation is primarily regulated by hormonal changes in the body, particularly the hormones prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin is responsible for milk production, while oxytocin facilitates milk ejection during breastfeeding. When the nipples are stimulated—whether through breastfeeding, pumping, or even through the sensation of a piercing—this can trigger the release of these hormones, leading to lactation.
Nipple Piercing and Hormonal Response
When you pierce your nipples, the body may respond to the trauma and stimulation of the nerve endings in that area. This stimulation can inadvertently trigger the hormonal pathways associated with lactation. As a result, some individuals may notice milk leakage or increased sensitivity in the days or weeks following the piercing. This phenomenon is not uncommon and can occur even in individuals who are not currently breastfeeding or pregnant.
Safety Considerations
While lactation after nipple piercing can be a natural response, it is essential to consider the implications for breastfeeding if you are nursing. Nipple piercings can pose certain risks, such as infections or blocked milk ducts, which may complicate breastfeeding. However, many individuals with nipple piercings can still breastfeed successfully, as long as they take precautions to maintain hygiene and monitor for any signs of complications.
Conclusion
In summary, lactating after getting your nipples pierced can be attributed to the stimulation of nerve endings and the subsequent hormonal responses in your body. While this can be a normal reaction, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with nipple piercings, especially if you are breastfeeding. If you have concerns about lactation or the effects of your piercing, consulting with a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and support.

When does horniness start in pregnancy?

Many women experience an increased libido late in the first trimester and in the second. Along with this increased libido comes increased vaginal lubrication and a hypersensitive clitoris due to extra genital blood flow. Take advantage of this time with your partner and share in the joy of how your body is changing.

Can you play with nipples during pregnancy?

Depending on your pregnancy and any complications you’re experiencing, nipple stimulation may not be safe for you. It may even increase the risk of preterm labor, Lucatero says. “It’s recommended to begin when pregnancy is low-risk and you’re at or past your due date.”

Do pierced nipples affect milk production?

Many piercings don’t interfere with nursing. Human nipples have 8-12 openings and it is unlikely that a well healed piercing will block off all the openings. However, some nipple piercings cause scar tissue. This can lead to blocked milk ducts that reduce the flow of milk and may lead to low milk supply.

What is the most painful piercing?

Unsurprisingly, genital piercings are widely considered to be the most painful. Regardless of what you choose to get done, you should expect significant immediate pain and a long healing time.

Does getting your nipples pierced affect anything?

Nipple piercing can be aesthetically pleasing, but there are risks to consider. Infection is common with any body piercing. Contact a healthcare provider if you develop signs of an infection, including fever, redness, and yellow discharge. Other risks include allergic contact dermatitis and scarring.

What are 100% signs of pregnancy?

Signs of pregnancy

  • missed period.
  • nausea and vomiting (often called ‘morning’ sickness, but it can occur at any time)
  • breast tenderness and enlargement.
  • fatigue.
  • passing urine more frequently than usual, particularly at night.

Do your nipples stay hard after you get them pierced?

Do nipple piercings make your nipples hard forever? Nipple piercings will usually cause the nipple to protrude slightly, and this tends to be permanent. It won’t necessarily make them constantly hard, but it will make them more prominent, which is one of reasons people with inverted nipples choose to get them pierced.

Do pierced nipples affect pregnancy?

Every piercing carries a risk of infection, and pregnancy increases your risk of complications from infection. But if you have piercings that have healed such as belly-button rings or nipple jewellery, you don’t need to remove existing piercings during pregnancy.

Is it OK to squeeze nipples while pregnant?

Although there are benefits in expressing colostrum during pregnancy, there are times when it’s not recommended. There is a risk that stimulating the breasts may trigger premature labour. Don’t try to express milk from your breasts if you: are at risk of, or had threatened premature labour.

What happens to nipples after piercing?

Proper placement and sizing of the jewelry is important to prevent embedding or rejection. After piercing it can take a minimum of 6 months for nipples to heal, but can often take up to a year or more. Some women notice increased irritation and ‘flare-ups’ during their menstrual cycles.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment