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Nipple Discharge

Overview

When you are not breastfeeding or pregnant, fluid leaking from one or both nipples is called nipple discharge. It may or may not be a sign of a medical problem.

Two types of nipple discharge are:

  • Nonspontaneous discharge. This occurs only when you press on your nipple. It is common and rarely means that there is a problem. The discharge can be clear, cloudy, white, yellow, green, or brown. The more the nipple is pressed or stimulated, the more fluid is discharged.
  • Spontaneous discharge. This type of discharge occurs without pressing or stimulating the nipple. This is not normal unless you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Galactorrhea is one type of spontaneous nipple discharge. It may be a side effect of a medicine or caused by a noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland (pituitary adenoma), decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism), or certain types of cancer.

Call your doctor if you have spontaneous nipple discharge, a discharge from only one nipple (unilateral), or discharge that is bloody.

Credits

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.