Exercises to Prevent Breast Inversion

Inverted breasts, or more specifically breast with inverted nipples, often need minor surgery to correct them, but before surgery there are some exercises you can do to prevent or correct an inverted or flat nipple. An inverted nipple is one that points inward instead of outwards and it can be a hindrance to breast feeding. Both men and women can get inverted nipples.

The Hoffman Technique

The Hoffman technique is a simple stretching exercise you can do to break up adhesions under the skin near the nipple that may be causing or could cause nipple inversion. To do the exercise, take both your thumbs and put them on one nipple where it meets the breast. Start with your thumbs on each side of the nipple. Using moderate pressure, simultaneously pull the thumbs in opposite directions outward. Then, place them above and below the nipple and again pull them away. This will break up existing adhesions and loosen ones that may be forming as a preventative measure. Start doing the exercise twice daily. Gradually increase to five times daily.

Stimulation

Stimulating the nipple or nipples can cause inversion to reverse, at least temporarily. Tools like clamps and other stimulation devices for nipples can be used daily to offset inversion or prevent flat nipples from inverting. Having your partner stimulate your nipples manually or orally can work too. Suction cups or syringes may work too. Daily stimulation through any of these means may help, but talk to a doctor before trying any of these exercises.

Breast Shells

Breast shells can also prevent inverted nipples, though the evidence for curing them is inconclusive. The plastic shells are worn inside your bra. They should not be worn at night, but can otherwise be used every day. The shells put pressure on the area around the nipple, which can break up any adhesions under the skin that may be trying to pull the nipple inward. Breast shells are often used by pregnant women in their third trimester, but anyone can use them along with doing the exercises mentioned above. Start by wearing them for only a few hours during the day and increase the time gradually.