Doctor makes important clarification for anyone who has ‘burger nipples’

The term ‘burger nipples’ is nothing more than derogatory slang to refer to nipples with areolas deemed by society to be on the ‘larger’ side.

Before we get going, it’s good to remember: every human body is built differently. There’s no shame in having nipples that differ in size, shape and colour from those of your friends, family and/or partner.

The only difference is that you’re probably more likely to have a nip-slip in a low-cut bikini top, or that you may be able to see your areolas clearly through white dresses.

And hey, both things happen to people with smaller, lighter nipples, too!

But what actually categorises a ‘burger nipple’ and why are so many people so uncomfortable about them? Well, an expert has answered, revealing an important clarification for anyone who’s worried.

'Burger nipples' is a derogative descriptor, often used online to put down people with large areolae (Getty Stock Image)

What are 'burger nipples'?

Like it says on the tin, burger nipples refer to large nipples, which some people have claimed look like a burger patty.

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."

The expert added that nipple colour varies from pale pink to dark red and brown. Everyone is unique!

Women's nipples can change in size, shape and colour (Getty Stock Image)

Should people with larger nipples be concerned?

Listen up. There's no right or wrong size when it comes to nipples.

However, if you have noticed any changes that aren't normal for you, it's worth seeking medical advice.

But if online discussion has forced you to begin feeling self-conscious, then Dr Lee has an important point to make.

"There is nothing to be ashamed of if your nipples look like this," she stated. “All nipples look different."

How to check your breasts for lumps and swelling

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

To do this, begin by looking at your breasts/and or chest in a mirror. That way, you can pinpoint any on-the-surface changes immediately.

The NHS stated that you should then feel around each breast and/or side of your chest in a circular motion all the way up to your collarbone, under each armpit and over and around each nipple.

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.