Nipple Spots

I have black spots developing on my nipples and I have lost sensitivity almost totally in them.  They form in the cracks on the nipple and the areola, are not painful or itchy, but are rapidly increasing and it looks like my nipples are becoming covered in moles.  What can I do and should I be concerned?  I will also add that I am seven months pregnant, however I have never experienced anything like this with the four other pregnancies I have had.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

During pregnancy, sweat and sebaceous glands increase in activity as a result of the hormonal changes.  What is happening to your nipples may have the same mechanism as clogged pores of the sweat glands in the face, forming what we call comedones.

Comedones are blocked sweat glands due to dirt or skin debris.  This occurrence is more common in active sweat glands, such as that happening during pregnancy.  This can become infected if manipulated and it is strongly advised that you refrain from touching them.  When you give birth and would want to breast feed, it is recommended that you have this treated by a dermatologist.

Regards.