Does nipple discharge cause pain?
The discharge might come out of just one nipple or both nipples. And it can leak out on its own or only when you squeeze the nipple. Some other symptoms you might have with nipple discharge include: breast pain or tenderness.
What type of nipple discharge is suspicious for cancer?
Abnormal nipple discharge can be bloody or nonbloody. Takeda and colleagues noted that the presence of red blood cells or clusters of more than 30 ductal cells is suggestive of malignancy. The most common causes of bloody discharge from the nipple are intraductal papilloma, duct ectasia, and less often cancer.
Is it normal to have nipple discharge when not pregnant?
A nipple discharge can also be normal in women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, especially during the reproductive years. For example, in women, fondling, suckling, irritation from clothing, or sexual arousal can stimulate a nipple discharge, as can stress.
What does it mean when you squeeze your nipple and liquid comes out?
Nipple discharge is the release of fluid from the nipple. It is a very common breast symptom and in most cases is part of the normal function of the breast rather than being caused by a problem. Nipple discharge alone (without a lump or other nipple change) is a very uncommon symptom of breast cancer.
What kind of nipple discharge is normal?
A normal nipple discharge is usually a thin, cloudy, whitish, or almost clear fluid that is not sticky. However, the discharge may be other colors, such as gray, green, yellow, or brown. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, a normal discharge is sometimes slightly bloody.
What causes pain in the breast nipple?
Nipples are sensitive, and they can hurt for lots of reasons. Tight clothes, rashes, and infections can all irritate the tender skin. For women, sore nipples are common during periods, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Any pain in your nipples can make you wonder if you have breast cancer.
Is nipple discharge always cancer?
Nipple discharge can be an early symptom of breast cancer, but most cases of nipple discharge are due to benign conditions.
Is it normal to have discharge when you squeeze your nipple?
Both abnormal and normal nipple discharge can be clear, yellow, white, or green in color. Normal nipple discharge more commonly occurs in both nipples and is often released when the nipples are compressed or squeezed. Some women who are concerned about breast secretions may actually cause it to worsen.
What is the white stuff that comes out of nipple bumps?
Montgomery glands can become filled with a waxy substance. The gland then resembles a pimple with a white or yellowish head. These spots are known as Montgomery tubercles. Women do not have to be pregnant or breast-feeding for this to occur.
Can hormones cause nipple discharge?
Hormonal changes are responsible for this colostrum production. However, hormonal changes unrelated to pregnancy may also cause breast discharge. Situations in which normal nipple discharge can occur include: in response to nipple or breast stimulation, such as during sex.
Is it normal to have nipple discharge?
Nipple discharge is a normal part of breast function during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It may also be associated with menstrual hormone changes and fibrocystic changes. The milky discharge after breast-feeding will normally affect both breasts and can continue for up to two or three years after stopping nursing.
Should I worry about breast pain?
Although most cases of breast pain are minor problems, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your concerns. “If you have persistent breast pain, you should be evaluated,” says Wright. “And anyone who has a lump — painful or not — should see their doctor for an exam to make sure there isn’t a problem.”