Menstrual cycle
Women also go through a hormonal change during menstruation. During this time, the hormone levels fly up in preparation to release the egg. Similarly, the breasts change and, in some cases, this may lead to darker nipples during ovulation. This usually clears up at the end of the cycle.
Although in most cases, a change in color isn´t a reason to worry, there is a serious condition that initially starts to show itself by darker nipples.
Paget´s disease
Paget´s disease of the breast is a cancer type that usually starts developing in the nipple. If you notice darker nipples, you should pay attention to whether any other Paget´s disease symptom is present. The symptoms may be a nipple that is more flattened, itching or a feeling of tingling, a crusty skin around the nipple area, and in some cases even a discharge of the nipple, usually yellow or bloody.
Paget´s disease commonly affects older individuals, rather than ones in puberty. However, it can and in rare cases affects teenagers during puberty. If you´re experiencing any of the symptoms above, it is best to visit your doctor and have that checked out! Paget´s disease is believed to be caused by a tumor of the breasts that spreads its cancerogenic cells through the milk ducts to the nipple.
Patients who have Paget´s disease of the nipple almost in all cases also have a tumor in the same breast. Paget´s disease is in most cases treated through the removal of the affected nipple and radiation of the breast, to make sure all cancer cells are getting fought against. In some cases, especially when combined with a tumor, a biopsy may be necessary for the trial to remove the cancer cells.
How well the treatment will work depends on the stage of Paget´s disease the therapy began. It makes a big difference whether Paget´s disease is combined with a tumor or not and if breast cancer is present.
It is, therefore, most important to consult a physician upon noticing symptoms that differ from your normal state of being. An early diagnosis makes a big difference when it comes to breast or nipple cancer or many other conditions!