Do you have nipples, and what type are they? Learn more about the 9 different types of nipples, including hairy, soft, small, and protruding nipples, below.

You probably know nipples, or you have ever seen those of your friend or sister or a breastfeeding mother. It is common for women to start comparing their nipples. Most people are familiar with flat, normal, or pointed nipples. However, there are other nipple types. Nipples vary from one lady to another, and the difference in nipples' shapes and size is normal. . It is important to note that there is nothing like perfect nipple formation or breast size. 

Causes of Different Nipples

Different aspects cause differences in nipple size and shape. These causes include;

• Genetics 
• Aging
• Piercing 
• Hormones 
• Temperature 
• Pregnancy 

Different Types of Nipples 

Protruding Nipples 

Protruding nipples are usually pointy. They are raised slightly above the surface of the areola or the skin surrounded by the nipple. These nipples also vary from one woman to another. Also, when it is cold or when the nipples are stimulated, they become extremely pronounced and hard. It is normal to possess this nipple, but one may feel uncomfortable because they show under clothing. 

Tight /Erect Nipples 

This type of nipple is pointy and outward in formation. Erect nipples can indicate being sexually aroused. Also, they can result from a cold climate or tight clothing. Generally, nipple erection occurs when a woman is sexually aroused or during any sexual activity. Surprisingly, most women often take this as a friendly gesture.

Hairy Nipples 

Hairy nipples are mostly genetic, which can happen due to gene transformation. Hairy nipples are common in women who experience ovarian Cysts, PCOS, and irregular menstruation. However, it is also commonly witnessed in men. The hair often protrudes on the surface surrounding the nipple (areola). The hair around the nipple can be coarse or thick. Having hairy nipples can cause anxiety. You can clinically burn the nipple hair or consider shaving depending on the hair growth rate.

Supernumerary Nipples

Unlike other nipples, supernumerary nipples are unique since they occur congenitally. This means they occur at birth. Also, it is a common defect that can occur before birth. Women with this type of nipple have extra nipples above the normal ones. They usually protrude around the chest. However, it rarely causes any medical complications. This type of nipples can only be noticeable during pregnancy or puberty. Surgery is one of the options for getting rid of the extra nipple.

Small Nipples

Nipples exist in different sizes and shapes. This is why it is a normal thing to have tiny nipples. Like other body parts, a small nipple is also a result of genetics. Whether big or small, all nipples function conventionally. The common causes of small nipples are pregnancy and genetics. Surgery, specific exercises, and vacuum techniques are the common methods applied by ladies to increase their nipple size. 

Soft /Puffy Nipples 

The soft or puffy nipples have a conical shape. While most ladies embrace this nipple fully, some find it embarrassing. Soft nipples often have many tissues around the areola area. The common cause of soft nipples is PMS, genetics, medication, and hormones. 

Firm Nipples

This is the most common type of nipple. These nipples get hard due to sexual arousal or temperature changes. The hardening of the nipples can also be caused by ovulation, allergies from piercing, and breastfeeding. Having firm or hard nipples is normal, but it is important to consult your doctor if you experience any pain. Most women who experience the hardening of the nipples are often caused by sexual arousal.

Sensitive Nipples 

Having sensitive nipples is normal. For women with sensitive nipples, being in harsh weather conditions might be challenging. This also applies during sexual stimulation. Any touch on their nipples is felt in different parts of the body. Most women prefer the sensitive nipple to others since they enjoy intense pleasure when the nipples are stimulated. Having sensitive nipples might be uncomfortable to some women, but it is a great deal during oral sex or foreplay.

Inverted / Retracted Nipples 

Unlike the protruding nipples that are pointy and outward, inverted nipples sink in the breast. The features of these nipples do not affect general health or bring discomfort. However, they occur suddenly, which requires full attention since it can indicate breast cancer. They also occur in three grades, the first, second and third. The first grade is slightly inverted, the second is a visible nipple, and the third is extremely inverted nipples.