Male nipples are sensitive because they develop before sex hormones differentiate fetal genitalia.
The male body has two nipples that can become erect during arousal. Nipple stimulation is common in foreplay. They have more nerve endings than female nipples, making them even more responsive to touch. Some men enjoy having their nipples caressed, while others find it uncomfortable. During puberty, testosterone levels increase and stimulate penile development. Before this, however, both boys and girls develop breasts and nipples. The reason for this is that embryos initially form undifferentiated mammary glands. At six weeks gestation, these become separate from the chest wall, which leads to breast development. By week eight, the mammary buds grow outward, forming nipples. By week twelve, they grow larger and darken in color due to pigmentation changes. From birth to three months old, babies' nipples secrete milk as they feed from their mothers. In adulthood, women continue producing milk when they give birth, but men do not. However, men may experience lactation if exposed to high stress levels or certain medications. Male nipples remain sensitive throughout life due to a rich network of nerves around them. These include those responsible for sensing pain, pleasure, and temperature regulation. Some men may also feel an electric shock-like sensation when their nipples are touched. This occurs because of the connection between the nipple and the pituitary gland, which regulates hormones.
Male nipples play a role in sexual arousal by providing additional stimulation during foreplay. They can be stimulated manually or with electrical devices such as vibrators or suction cups. Men who enjoy this often report increased sexual satisfaction and orgasm intensity. However, some may find it too intense or embarrassing. Nipple play is more common among heterosexual couples than homosexuals due to cultural expectations of male masculinity. Despite this, research shows that over 40% of gay men enjoy nipple stimulation, suggesting society has stifled exploration and expression of gender identity. It should not be surprising that men have nipples since every mammal does, including marsupials and primates. Yet societal norms have conditioned many to hide them or view them as abnormal. Men who embrace their bodies and explore sexuality can benefit from enhanced intimacy and self-acceptance. By understanding the origins of male nipples, they can better appreciate their function and potential benefits.