Is it normal for a 9-year-old female to have tender, almost raw-looking nipples with otherwise normal breast mound development?

From the Research

It's not typical for a 9-year-old girl to have tender, raw-looking nipples during normal breast development, and this symptom warrants medical attention from a pediatrician. While early breast development (thelarche) commonly begins between ages 8-13 and can involve some sensitivity, raw or irritated-appearing nipples suggest potential issues like dermatitis, infection, or irritation from clothing 1. Until a doctor can evaluate, gentle care is recommended:

• avoid harsh soaps,
• use fragrance-free moisturizers,
• dress in soft cotton clothing, and
• avoid scratching the area. The skin of developing breast tissue is delicate, and various factors including allergic reactions, friction from clothing, or even excessive washing can cause irritation 2. Sometimes, applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly can provide temporary relief. However, professional medical assessment is important to rule out any underlying conditions and ensure appropriate treatment for your child's specific situation, as benign breast conditions can be common but require proper evaluation to distinguish them from more serious issues 3.