Pilot study of normal development of nipples during pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Numerous factors, both in the mother and in the infant, are involved in achieving breastfeeding. One maternal factor is normality of the nipples. However, no definition of normal nipple length or width or normal range and changes in pregnant women exists. Objective: This study aimed to demonstrate the change of nipple length and width and areola width during pregnancy in Thai women. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted from March 2010 to July 2011. A total of 56 pregnant women with nipple length ≥ 7 mm on both sides were recruited for the study. All women were at 8 to 12 weeks of gestation. The patients were scheduled for nipple and areola measurements up to 9 times, depending on the routine antenatal care appointments and delivery date. Nipple length and width and areola width of all participants were consecutively evaluated in each prenatal visit. Results: The mean nipple length was 9.3 ± 1.5 mm at the first visit and significantly increased to 11.2 ± 1.8 mm by the time of the last visit (P < .001). Similarly, the nipple width was 13.6 ± 1.8 mm in the first trimester and widened to 15.9 ± 2.3 mm at term (P < .001). No differences of nipple length or width change were observed between both sides. The areola width of both sides considerably increased by 12.3 ± 6.1 mm during pregnancy (P < .001). Conclusion: During pregnancy, nipple length and width as well as areola width increased significantly. © The Author(s) 2013.