Some people are born with extra nipples, a condition called supernumerary nipples or polythelia. While extra nipples are not uncommon, occurring in around 1-5% of the population, many wonder if these additional nipples are capable of functioning like regular nipples. Specifically, can extra nipples produce milk and lactate like normal nipples?
What are supernumerary nipples?
Supernumerary nipples, also called accessory nipples or polythelia, refer to having extra nipples in addition to the usual two. These extra nipples can number from one to several and occur anywhere along the milk lines which run from the armpit to the groin area.
While nipples normally only develop in the chest area, sometimes extra nipples form all along this line during embryonic development. The extra nipples are often smaller than regular nipples and can resemble moles or birthmarks. However, they will still have features of a nipple, like a raised areola, and can produce milk in some cases.
Prevalence
Extra nipples are surprisingly common. Estimates range from around 1-5% of the population having supernumerary nipples. They occur slightly more often in males than females. Having one or two extra nipples is most common, but some people have several additional nipples.
Causes
The cause of supernumerary nipples is not fully understood. They seem to result from random errors during embryonic development rather than having a specific genetic cause in most cases. However, there are some genetic conditions, like Klinefelter syndrome, that are associated with extra nipples.
Appearance
Extra nipples can vary greatly in appearance from person to person. Some common features include:
– Smaller size than regular nipples, ranging from a small bump to a nipple-like shape
– Often lighter color than regular nipples
– Frequently located below the breasts along the milk lines
– Resembles moles or freckles
– May have hair around the areola region
– Can be inverted into the skin
– Level of development varies from a tiny bump to nearly a full nipple
Can extra nipples lactate?
The main question around supernumerary nipples is whether they are capable of breastfeeding function like regular nipples. Can they produce milk and lactate?
Breast tissue
For lactation to be possible, the nipple needs to be attached to breast tissue that contains mammary glands that produce milk. Some supernumerary nipples are connected to breast tissue with glandular components. However, many have only a minimal amount of tissue and no glandular structure. The level of breast tissue determines if lactation can occur.
Hormonal response
For milk production, the mammary glands need to receive hormonal stimulation. During pregnancy and after birth, increased levels of estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin trigger the mammary glands to start producing milk.
Researchers have found that extra nipples with sufficient breast tissue can respond to these hormonal changes just like normal nipples and begin milk secretion. However, those with minimal breast tissue likely lack the glandular components to respond to lactation hormones.
Lactation capability
Based on the presence of breast tissue and hormonal response, it appears that some, but not all, supernumerary nipples have the potential to lactate. Those nipples with the most complete development and glandular structure are the most likely to be able to produce milk. However, even normal nipples vary in their milk producing capabilities between women and even between the two breasts.
Here is a summary of the lactation potential:
– Well-formed extra nipples with ample breast tissue can often lactate
– Minimally developed supernumerary nipples lack breast tissue and cannot lactate
– The lactation capability depends on the individual and the development of that particular nipple
Real-life accounts
There are documented reports of women who were able to successfully breastfeed from extra nipples, indicating they were capable of full lactation function. However, these cases are relatively rare, and most supernumerary nipples will not produce milk. But it does demonstrate that some extra nipples are able to lactate given the right circumstances.
Can extra nipples be used for breastfeeding?
While some women have successfully breastfed from extra nipples, using supernumerary nipples for breastfeeding is very uncommon. Here are some reasons why:
Lower milk supply
Even nipples capable of lactating tend to have lower milk production than regular nipples. The breast tissue associated with extra nipples is minimal compared to the developed breast, so their milk supply is typically much less.
Positioning difficulties
The positioning of many supernumerary nipples would make breastfeeding difficult. Nipples located far from the chest or in difficult to access regions would prevent proper feeding positioning.
Social stigma
There is social discomfort around exposing and using extra nipples for breastfeeding purposes. Many women avoid drawing attention to these extra nipples, especially in public breastfeeding situations.
Adequate milk from regular breasts
For women who can produce enough milk from their regular breasts, there is no need to access milk from extra nipples. The regular nipples are better designed for breastfeeding.
So while possible in theory, realistically extra nipples are rarely used for breastfeeding purposes in practice. The regular breasts remain the standard for nursing infants.
Can stimulating extra nipples increase milk supply?
Some women wonder if stimulating their extra nipples in addition to their normal breasts can boost their milk production. Research on this question is limited, but here is what we know:
How milk supply works
Milk supply is controlled by hormone levels and nipple stimulation to the breast. Prolactin controls baseline production, while nipple stimulation triggers let-down and removal of milk. Frequent feeding or pumping signals the body to make more milk.
Stimulating extra nipples
Stimulating the extra nipples may trigger let-down from the associated breast tissue. However, because the tissue is minimal, any additional milk contributed is insignificant. Stimulating extra nipples alone without also emptying the regular breasts will not increase overall milk supply.
No major supply boost
Stimulating and emptying the extra nipples a few times a day might boost supply slightly. But this increase will be minimal and not make a major difference for most women.
Focus on regular nipples
Rather than stimulating extra nipples, women should focus effort on fully emptying the regular breasts as frequently as possible to maximize milk production. This is a far more effective strategy.
So while not harmful, stimulating extra nipples is unlikely to substantially increase breastmilk production for most women. Thoroughly emptying the regular breasts is a better use of time.
Risks and complications
For the most part, supernumerary nipples are harmless. However, there are some possible risks and complications to be aware of.
Self-consciousness
Some people feel self-conscious about the appearance of their extra nipples. Nipple reduction surgery can be done for cosmetic reasons.
Breast cancer risk
Research indicates extra nipples likely do not increase breast cancer risk. But any abnormal breast tissue should be monitored for changes by a doctor.
Problems during pregnancy
Hormonal changes may cause extra nipples to become enlarged and sensitive during pregnancy. They may also secrete fluid.
Skin irritation
Skin irritation, cracking, fissures, and infection can occur if extra nipples get rubbed by clothing. Keeping the area protected and using nipple creams can help.
Trauma risk
Some report the extra nipples are prone to injury or trauma due to their positioning. Care should be taken to avoid damage.
So while usually harmless, some women experience discomfort or complications from the extra nipples during certain times like pregnancy. Consulting a doctor can help manage any issues.
Conclusion
While not commonly used for breastfeeding, some supernumerary nipples are capable of producing milk and lactating if they are sufficiently developed and connected to mammary glands. However, the milk supply from extra nipples is typically minimal compared to the regular nipples. Stimulating extra nipples may boost supply slightly but is unlikely to dramatically increase production for most women. For those experiencing complications from their extra nipples, speaking to a doctor about treatment options is advised.