Bleeding Nipples - Health + Injury

Jim Neal

16/09/2002 at 19:38

Just started running longer distances on a more frequent basis
, upto 9-10 miles. Found that at these distances i tend to get nipple bleed, just wondered
whether buying a proper running top rather than cotton t-shirts would correct this problem. Plasters
dont work, i haven't tried vaseline.

Any suggestions would be greatfully received

happyslug

16/09/2002 at 19:49

sounds horrendous Jim, if plasters don't work i wonder if surgical tape would be better? with vaseline over, a la Scotty's blister prevention?

Proper running top probably a good idea for all sorts of other reasons, but fabric varies so much, look out for something a bit peachy feeling!

Good Luck!

Gradge

16/09/2002 at 20:45

I use micropore tape which works well for me(and is less painfull to remove!)i find it is only a problem during races(something to do with the speed?!) and that "fancy "fabrics make very little difference.

Alan1976

17/09/2002 at 09:37

I Suffered Bleeding Nipples after taking part in the Great Scottish Run Last week although it was Torrential Rain that day I was adviced to use Vaseline so it is worth a try.

Parky

17/09/2002 at 10:38

Jim, try using some soft corn plasters. They've got a hole in the middle for your nipples and acts as some sort of protection for them. Worked for me (well till I dribbled water down the front of my shirt and they fell off!)

Bionic Ironwolf pirate

pirate

17/09/2002 at 11:30

Jim, there's another thread on this subject with a lot of responses - read "Sore Nipples" for a whole lot of advice. But personally I use a product called Bodyglide, it's similar to vaseline but non-petroleum based, doesn't mark your clothes, us triathletes use it under Neoprene wetsuits because it stops any chafing and does not affect the Neoprene. If you read the other thread there's some advice on where to buy it from in England - soory I can't help you there as I live in Germany.

Skwerl

17/09/2002 at 15:02

You can get Bodyglide form www.triandrun.com
It's about 9 quid for 35 grams

Highlandmalted

17/09/2002 at 15:16

I only started getting bleeding nipples when I switched from cotton t-shirts to proper running gear. Wouldn't swap back for anything because of the other benefits but I use vaseline and it seems to work for the 10 mile distances.

I don't mind that it marks my running tops as I only use them for running and I look so damn awful when I'm out there that a couple of stains on my top makes no difference.

Michael Stiff

18/09/2002 at 23:46

Biggest problem is when you get wet - so in a race when your pushing hard or when it rains. Surgical tape works for me - I've tried a couple of brands and Tesco's own works best. One reel, at about £3, should last all year. Put on just the smallest piece you can and do it HOURS before your run as it seems to stick more then. The best alternative is to run with no shirt on - which is fine in the summer, if you're male and if it is not a race.

cougie

pirate

19/09/2002 at 16:19

I've always used plasters for runs of more than 8 miles. The only problem is that I end up waxing my chest when I am brave enough to rip them off.

Do plasters fall off on some people ?

happyslug

19/09/2002 at 19:12

I've never had a plaster fall on me!! :))

Bionic Ironwolf pirate

pirate

20/09/2002 at 21:09

Plasters may be o.k. for you guys, but it's definitely a no-no for the fairer sex. Ouch!

Muttley

20/09/2002 at 23:36

How come? Have you got a hairy chest as well, then?

(I will try that Bodyglide you recommended, I promise I will).

Aluaka

21/09/2002 at 11:26

Try fixing your race number lower on your shirt/vest so that the safety pins are a good distance from your nips - and the lighter weight material that your shirt/vest is made of the better.

I don't use any plasters or vaseline, and avoid getting my top really wet.

So far I have only had mild nipple soreness over half marathon distance.

Clive Firth

21/09/2002 at 11:44

I find that whether I'm wearing cotton T-shirts of proper running tops my nipples will bleed on runs of 10k upwards. I tried vaseline but it didn't really work that well, particuarly on runs of 1/2 marathon and above. I tried plasters and as far as i'm concerned they work well. The smaller the better as it is only the nipple tip that needs covering. Large plasters i cut in half or quarters. Just remember to take the plasters of while your still sweaty and they will remove painlessly, i.e.no hair pulling.

Desert Man

21/09/2002 at 13:11

I use NipGuards for anything over 12 miles - work great. See www.nipguards.com for more details, in fact this site has way too many details ! Bit pricey though.

Bionic Ironwolf pirate

pirate

05/10/2002 at 12:37

Vindicated! I've been telling you all (under my old nickname Sheila Anne)to use Bodyglide - see RW November issue, page 71, Jogger's Nipple! The article says that in England you can get it from
www.way-side.demon.co.uk

Shanners

20/05/2008 at 10:21

Yes, i have suffered this ever since I started running 8 years ago.

Trying everything, the best cure is using the larger width strips of 3M's MICROPORE. Only one strip is needed for each nipple, as the 3M MICROPORE has the strongest glue - much better than supermarket own brands etc. After running, just get it wet in the shower and it easily peels off - even if you have a half-wolverine chest like me.

3M's MICROPORE - its the way forward.

Rui Ribeiro

23/05/2008 at 00:13

The clothing will matter as well. Buying running t shirts will make it better (I've used Nike's DRI-FIT based t shirts for many years and that helps a lot). I still had trouble when it rained, but I found a solution just recently - started using a Nike Compression Pro t shirt under the normal running shirt. It also feels a lot more confortable, even when it's not raining. The compression t shirts adjust to the body very nicely and feel confortable even when there is more heat. I've even bought a couple more, so that I can have one available for almost every run.

Edited: 23/05/2008 at 00:17

not a real runner

29/05/2008 at 13:16

I have always had this problem - something to do with being a 'heavy' sweater and still not having lost my 'moobs' so i use nip guards - yes you can buy them I get mine at Runners Need - they are quite expensive though. others I know use corn plasters.