How Do Puffy Nipples Affect Men's Sexual Health?

Gynecomastia affects between up to 65 percent of boys and men. But is it a major health concern?

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Illustration by Brandon Cornwell

Published: September 13, 2023

Key Points

Gynecomastia can develop in men at birth, during puberty or later in life.
Puffy nipples are generally a cosmetic issue, but men may face mental challenges and embarrassment during sexual activities.
Healthy lifestyle changes can help reduce excess breast tissue and give you more confidence.

Despite the outside appearance or attitude displayed, some men deal with health conditions that cause body image issues and lead to challenges in the bedroom.

One specific attribute that can affect their sexual confidence is puffy nipples.

What are puffy nipples?

Puffy nipples are a symptom of a condition known as gynecomastia, where boys and men develop excessive breast tissue due to hormonal imbalances, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

It's also common, affecting 50 percent to 65 percent of boys and men.

Men can develop gynecomastia at birth, during puberty or later in life when they enter old age. Overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men is a noncancerous health condition.

How can puffy nipples affect a man's sexual health?

The physical appearance of puffy nipples may affect a man's sex drive.

"Hormonal imbalances in testosterone and estrogen cause puffy nipples, which can contribute to a low sex drive," said Megan Hilbert, M.S., R.D.N., a gut health dietitian at Thrive Health Holdings in Wilmington, Delaware.

Puffy nipples can cause psychological effects, which may impact how men navigate sex.

"Some men may experience self-consciousness or a decrease in self-esteem due to the appearance of puffy nipples," said Stewart Parnacott, D.N.P., a certified registered nurse anesthetist and an instructor at Bay College of Medicine in Houston. "This emotional burden can indirectly influence sexual confidence and intimacy."

Although puffy nipples are a cosmetic issue, men may face mental challenges before, during and after having sexual activities with partners.

"When it comes to getting intimate with someone, it can feel like there's a spotlight on the very thing you're most self-conscious about," said Mike Julom, A.C.E.-C.P.T., a personal trainer and founder of internet gym site ThisIsWhyImFit.com. "Instead of being in the moment, you might find yourself worrying about what your partner thinks of your body."

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What causes puffy nipples?

Several factors may contribute to the development of puffy nipples in men, according to Cleveland Clinic, such as:

Adrenal tumors
Alcoholism
Kidney disease or failure
Klinefelter syndrome
Liver disease
Thyroid disease

Also, taking medications to treat the following conditions may cause puffy nipples:

Bacterial and fungal infections
Enlarged prostate
Heart failure and high blood pressure
Heartburn and stomach ulcers
Male infertility
Mental conditions such as anxiety and depression

Other treatments and substances, such as opioids, marijuana, anabolic steroids and certain oils—lavender and tea tree, to name two—may also contribute to gynecomastia.

Hilbert said exercise, such as long periods of running, may cause puffy nipples as "the excess friction on your nipples from shirt fabric can irritate and create puffiness in nipples."

Are there serious health effects of having puffy nipples?

Generally, gynecomastia is not a major health concern. However, the associated puffy nipples that go with it can be a gateway to a larger health problem.

"Puffy nipples are mostly a cosmetic issue, but the root cause issues can contribute to your overall health," Hilbert said.

The psychological effects of having puffy nipples can take a toll on a man's mental health, potentially leading to heart problems.

"If you're constantly worried about how your body looks, that's going to cause stress," Julom said. "Stress can lead to all sorts of health problems, from headaches and trouble sleeping to more serious stuff like high blood pressure and heart disease."

It's recommended men with gynecomastia seek professional help if the condition affects their mental health.

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If a man has puffy nipples because he's overweight or obese, he should know excess fat may also lead to heart problems.

"If [puffy nipples] are due to excess fat and a high BMI, this can contribute to poor health outcomes over time like diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, high blood pressure and more," Hilbert said.

How to fix puffy nipples

Fortunately, puffy nipples are a treatable health condition. Men can make lifestyle adjustments to reduce the breast tissue in their chest.

Here are some of the best ways to reduce puffy nipples:

Decrease alcohol consumption. According to a 2022 study, heavy alcohol consumption can reduce testosterone levels and stop the body from burning fat. Eliminating or reducing alcohol intake may help sustain healthy testosterone levels and prevent excess fat.
Eat a balanced diet. "Emphasize a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet that supports overall health and aids in reducing body fat," Parnacott said. "Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats while limiting processed and high-calorie foods."
Engage in exercise. "Exercises that strengthen the back, improve posture and strengthen the chest—which can improve the appearance of puffy nipples—include barbell bench press, push-ups, rowing, etcetera," Hilbert said. Getting regular physical activity can help reduce men's breast tissue.
Speak with a medical professional. "Consult with a medical professional to rule out any underlying hormonal imbalances or medical conditions that may contribute to puffy nipples," Parnacott said. "In some cases, hormonal therapy or surgical interventions may be considered."