What Could Cause Breast Discharge?

HI Nipple discharge is a normal part of breast function during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It also may 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. A papilloma is a noncancerous (benign) tumor that can be associated with bloody discharge. It appears spontaneously and involves a single duct. Although the bloody discharge may resolve on its own, this situation requires evaluation with an ultrasound of the area behind the nipple and areola. If the ultrasound shows a lesion within a milk duct, you may need a biopsy to confirm that it s a papilloma or to exclude a cancer. Often, nipple discharge stems from a benign condition. However, breast cancer is a possibility, especially if: You have a lump in your breast Only one breast is affected The discharge contains blood The discharge is spontaneous and persistent The discharge affects only a single duct Possible causes of nipple discharge include: Abscess Birth control pills Breast cancer Breast infection Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) Endocrine disorders Excessive breast stimulation Fibrocystic breasts Galactorrhea Injury or trauma to the breast Intraductal papilloma Mammary duct ectasia Medication use Menstrual cycle hormone changes Paget s disease of the breast Periductal mastitis Pregnancy and breast-feeding Prolactinoma