Explained: So what is sad nipple syndrome and how can I tell if I actually have it?

When your nipples are touched, are you hit with an overwhelming feeling of sadness or something similar? If so, you probably have sad nipple syndrome and you should know that you’re not alone.

Sad nipple syndrome was brought to our attention on TikTok again recently after Jamie Laing spoke about his experience with it on his podcast with Sophie Habboo, NearlyWeds. He explained he had often felt sad when his left nipple was touched. The comment section went wild, as did Sophie, but it turns out it’s way more common than people think.

One person described it as: “It’s like a really weird sinking feeling like impending doom or really bad nostalgia.” Another woman said it was like feeling homesick or guilty for something. Basically, it’s a strange and emotional feeling which is prompted by any touching of the nipple.

Sad nipple syndrome is real

— Kristen 〽️ (@myveganlife) October 27, 2022

Sad nipple syndrome unfortunately isn’t scientifically-recognised and there’s no published articles looking at what causes this feeling. This also means there is a gap in data on how common it is or what even causes sad nipple syndrome. Vagina Museum posted a thread on Twitter saying Sad Nipple syndrome is often skewed more towards women and it “might be related to Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex, which is a negative emotion which kicks in just before the milk ejection reflex when breastfeeding, and lasts for a few minutes. This is likely to be a psychological response.”

There has been some research into Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex and it’s recognised as distinct from postpartum depression. Those who experience the syndrome have also noted their nipples are touched or aroused by either themselves or another person. They also said they experience feelings of sadness, dread, depression, anxiety or even nausea.

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It’s very common and there are so many spaces online that talk about it.

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