Nipple discharge is common in women. Most is due to benign causes, but the colour and features of the discharge matter.
Usually harmless
- Milky or greenish-brown discharge from both breasts when squeezed
- Hormonal causes, some medicines and the period after breastfeeding
Needs examination
- Spontaneous discharge from one breast
- Bloody or clear watery discharge
- A lump or nipple retraction together with the discharge
How is it assessed?
The milk ducts are assessed with examination, ultrasound and, if needed, mammography. The commonest cause is a small benign growth in the duct (papilloma); treatment is removal of the duct.
Do not try to squeeze the discharge out; it can increase it and make assessment harder.
AUTHOR
Doç. Dr. Ebru Şen
General surgeon whose area of interest is breast surgery. Sees patients at Istinye University Medical Park Gaziosmanpaşa Hospital and Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital.
