The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Nipple Discharge

The vast majority of nipple discharges are benign; however, unilateral bloody discharge must always be investigated.

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.

References (5)

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

What is Nipple Discharge?

Nipple discharge is the appearance of fluid from the nipple outside the breastfeeding period. It is common in the general population and is mostly benign. Physiological discharges are usually bilateral, from multiple ducts in both breasts, and usually elicited by stimulation (squeezing, sexual stimulation, friction from clothing).

Pathological discharges are unilateral, from a single duct, spontaneous, yellow-green-bloody in color, and persistent. In galactorrhea, milk-like discharge may be due to elevated prolactin or medication use.

Diagnosis includes detailed history, breast examination, mammography, ultrasonography, and ductography. MRI and ductal excision are planned if needed. Causes include intraductal papilloma, ductal ectasia, breast cancer, and hormonal changes.

Symptoms

Unilateral nipple discharge
Bloody or serous-colored discharge
Spontaneous (occurring on its own) discharge
Persistent discharge from a single duct
Breast pain or mass
Nipple retraction
Axillary lymphadenopathy

Risk Factors

Advanced age
History of previous breast cancer
Hormonal changes
Drugs causing elevated prolactin
Pituitary adenoma
Smoking

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Unilateral, spontaneous bloody discharge
  • Discharge with breast mass
  • Accompanying nipple retraction or skin changes
  • Galactorrhea with menstrual irregularity
  • When axillary lymphadenopathy is detected

Treatment Methods

01
Detailed breast examination
02
Mammography and breast ultrasonography
03
Ductography or breast MRI
04
Prolactin level and pituitary MRI (in galactorrhea)
05
Microdochectomy for intraductal papilloma
06
Biopsy and surgery for suspicious lesions

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

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

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

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.