Overview

Galactorrhea (guh-lack-toe-REE-uh) is a milky nipple discharge unrelated to the usual milk production of breastfeeding. Galactorrhea itself isn’t a disease, but it could be a sign of another medical condition. It usually happens in women, even those who have never had children or who have gone through menopause. But galactorrhea can happen in men and babies.

Excessive breast stimulation, medicine side effects or conditions of the pituitary gland all may contribute to galactorrhea. Often, galactorrhea results from increased levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production.

Sometimes, the cause of galactorrhea can’t be determined. The condition may go away on its own.

Symptoms

Symptoms linked to galactorrhea include:

• Milky nipple discharge that may be constant, or it may come and go.
• Nipple discharge involving multiple milk ducts.
• Spontaneously leaked or manually expressed nipple discharge.
• Nipple discharge from one or both breasts.
• Absent or irregular menstrual periods.
• Headaches or vision problems.

When to see a doctor

If you have a persistent, spontaneous milky nipple discharge from one or both of your breasts and you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding, make an appointment to see your healthcare professional.

If breast stimulation — such as excessive nipple manipulation during sexual activity — triggers nipple discharge from multiple ducts, you have little cause for worry. The discharge probably doesn’t signal anything serious. This discharge often goes away on its own. If you have persistent discharge that doesn’t go away, make an appointment with your healthcare professional to get it checked out.

Nonmilky nipple discharge — particularly bloody, yellow or clear spontaneous discharge that comes from one duct or is associated with a lump you can feel — requires prompt medical attention. It may be a sign of an underlying breast cancer.

Print