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Galactorrhea

Causes, diagnosis, and treatment of milk discharge from the nipple outside pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Galactorrhea?

Galactorrhea is the discharge of white-yellow milk-like fluid from one or both nipples outside the pregnancy or breastfeeding period. Since prolactin hormone stimulates mammary gland secretion, hyperprolactinemia is the most common cause of galactorrhea.

Causes of hyperprolactinemia can be summarized as prolactinoma (pituitary adenoma), hypothyroidism, dopamine antagonist medications (metoclopramide, antipsychotics, antidepressants), kidney failure, and idiopathic hyperprolactinemia.

Unilateral bloody nipple discharge should be investigated for malignancy; pituitary adenoma is excluded by computed tomography or MRI, and prolactin and TSH levels are measured.

Symptoms

Spontaneous milk-like discharge from one or both nipples
Discharge that occurs with pressure on the nipple
Menstrual irregularity or amenorrhea (sign of prolactinoma)
Headache and visual field disturbance (large prolactinoma)
Decreased libido and infertility
Galactorrhea with gynecomastia in men

Risk Factors

Prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma (prolactinoma)
Use of dopamine antagonist medications
Hypothyroidism
Chronic kidney failure
Chest wall trauma or surgical stimulation
Stress and intense exercise

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Nipple discharge outside pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Breast discharge with menstrual irregularity
  • Galactorrhea with headache, visual disturbance
  • Bloody or unilateral discharge (malignancy investigation)
  • Galactorrhea after starting a new medication

Treatment Methods

01
Drug-induced: medication change or dose reduction if possible
02
Hypothyroidism: levothyroxine treatment
03
Prolactinoma: dopamine agonist (cabergoline or bromocriptine) as first choice
04
Large macroadenoma or visual field compression: transsphenoidal surgery
05
Idiopathic hyperprolactinemia: monitoring if symptoms are limited, cabergoline if desired
06
Regular prolactin follow-up and MRI surveillance protocol

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.