Nipple Anatomy

The nipple is a small, pigmented projection on the surface of the breast that contains numerous smooth muscle fibers, glands, and ducts. It surrounds the areola, the darker area, and serves as the outlet for milk during breastfeeding. Beneath the nipple, milk ducts transport milk from the breast tissue to the nipple opening. The nipple's skin is sensitive due to nerve endings, which helps facilitate breastfeeding and erogenous sensation. It also contains small muscles that can cause it to become erect in response to stimuli. Overall, the nipple plays a key role in breastfeeding and is an important part of breast anatomy.