Partial inverted nipple

I've noticed over the past year that my left nipple has become partially inverted. For lack of a better word it seems to be pouting. It is not itchy, red,oozing or crusty. The only other thing I've notice is frequent monthly tenderness on the left side of my breast to my underarm as opposed to general overall tenderness due to the onset of my period. My question is, being basically symptomless, is it possible for a nipple to change without it being an indicator of anything medically traumatic? I'm 38 years old with no history of breast cancer in my family and clear mammograms. Thank you for your time.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear jillyg:  Some people have inverted nipples and this is normal for them.  However, if this is a new thing and only on one side, it needs to be investigated.  There are other explanations than cancer but it is important to have it evaluated.

[surgeon]

new inversion of a nipple is something that needs to be explained: it can occur from several things, including injury (not all injuries would be severe enough for you to have remembered it), infection, inflammation. Cancer is also on the list; so it's best to be seen by a breast doctor and have it checked out further.

[Jillyg]

Thank so much to both of you for your prompt and no-nonsense responses. I have an appointment with my gyno in 2 weeks and will see what she has to say. I'm not freaking out but am concerned so hopefully she'll be able to give me some peace of mind.