‘Burger nipples’ explained as doctor makes important clarification for people who have them

Most of us have heard of the term 'burger nipples' - or 'burger nips' - and unfortunately, it's usually in a derogatory context.

In fact, the term can lead to people being embarrassed about their bodies - which is absolutely not OK.

All breasts and nipples are different (Getty Stock Photo)

We all know that *everybody* is different, with different bodies and varying-sized features. And it's the same with nipples.

Nipples are hugely unique and vary in size, shape and colour. They can also change - for example in pregnancy - when they often become larger and darker in colour.

Fun fact, this is believed to happen to allow a breastfeeding infant - whose eyesight is very limited during the newborn phase - to be able to find their mother's nipples more easily.

So what exactly are 'burger nipples' and why are people so uncomfortable about them?

Breasts can change a lot in pregnancy, too (Getty Stock Photo)

What are 'burger nipples'?

The name refers to large nipples, which *some* people liken to looking like a burger.

Dr Deborah Lee of Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, told Cosmopolitan UK: "The term 'burger nipples' is sometimes used when the nipple allegedly looks like a beef burger has been placed onto the tip of each breast.

"Of course, the nipple itself is not the burger. The nipple is the part of the breast that protrudes and is connected to the mammary glands underneath for breastfeeding.

"The larger, circular, often pigmented, ring of skin that surrounds the nipple is called the areola [and this] is the part that can 'resemble' a burger."

Why are some nipples larger than others?

Everyone's nipples are different, with Dr Lee explaining that the 'size, shape and colour' often change.

"The size, shape, and colour of the areola often change over your lifetime," Dr Lee said.

"In general, the areola tends to enlarge and darken in colour, with age.

"During pregnancy, levels of the melanocyte-secreting hormone become elevated, leading to hyperpigmentation of the skin, including the nipples."

Dr Lee explained that nipple colour varies from pale pink to dark red and brown.

Should people with larger nipples be concerned?

There's no right or wrong size when it comes to nipples, but if you have noticed any changes that aren't normal for you, it's worth seeking medical advice.

And if you do feel that your nipples are larger, Dr Lee has an important point to make.

"There is nothing to be ashamed of if your nipples look like this," she added.

"All nipples look different."

Breast health

While we're on the subject of breasts, it's important to remember to check your breasts regularly, for any changes.

Remember, signs and symptoms of breast cancer vary, with Breast Cancer Now reminding us to look out for:

• A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
• A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
• A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look darker, red or inflamed
• A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
• Rash or crusting around the nipple
• Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
• Changes in size or shape of the breast

They add: "On its own, pain in your breasts is not usually a sign of breast cancer. But look out for pain in your breast or armpit that’s there all or almost all the time."

Please see your doctor if you notice any breast changes.