Milky Discharge In Breast

A milky nipple discharge in a woman who is not pregnant or nursing, or in a man, is medically known as GALACTORRHEA. Usually this occurs in both breasts, and the discharge is thin and whitish, or possibly milky yellow or green. While in adults it is usually a sign of a medical condition, during puberty both girls and boys have a benign milky discharge. Interestingly, about 5% of newborn babies will leak milk from their breasts.

Usually galactorrhea is seen in both breasts, and the discharge is thin and whitish. Breasts can leak after vigorous rubbing, squeezing, or sucking. In which case it is a benign sign.

Galactorrhea can be a reaction to both prescription and illicit drugs, including birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, antipsychotics, antidepressants,, antihypertensives, marijuana, opiates, and steroids. A milky discharge can also be a sign you have been eating a lot of phytoestrogen-containing hebs, such as nettle, fennel, blessed thistle, anise, and fenugreek seed. The estrogen in these  herbs can cause milk to flow. Leaking milk can also signal several hormone-related conditions, including a pituitary tumor (prolactinoma) and hypothyroidism.

Women who adopt can breastfeed their babies. By stimulating their breast for several weeks with a manual or mechanical pump, a technique known as Induced Lactation, they can often produce small quantities of milk. If so, they and their babies can reap the emotional and health benefits of breastfeeding.

In men, a milky discharge is often the only sign of breast cancer. In women, however, having milky discharge without other signs is less likely to signal a serious problem.