Nipple Discharge: Is It Normal and What to Know?

Nipple discharge

Hello, doctor.
My last intimate encounter was on February 3rd (it was only friction through clothing, with no direct contact of the genitalia, but there was secretion of pre-ejaculate fluid).
My menstrual periods were from January 22 to January 28, March 2 to March 7, April 6 to April 12, and May 14 to May 20.
I took pregnancy tests on February 28, March 16, March 30, April 6, April 20, and May 4, and all results showed one line.
Can I be certain that I am not pregnant? Recently, when I squeeze my nipple, I noticed that the right nipple secretes a clear, slightly white fluid (in small amounts, only when squeezed).
This occurs even when I am not on my period or during ovulation.
Is this normal, doctor? Is milk secretion only possible during pregnancy?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/27

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last intimate encounter was on February 3rd (only through clothing with friction, no direct contact with the genitalia, but there was secretion of pre-ejaculatory fluid).
The menstrual periods were from January 22 to January 28, March 2 to March 7, April 6 to April 12, and May 14 to May 20.
Pregnancy tests were conducted on February 28, March 16, March 30, April 6, April 20, and May 4, all showing a single line.
Can it be confirmed that there is no pregnancy?
Answer: Recently, when squeezing the nipple, I noticed that the right nipple secretes a clear, slightly white fluid (viscous, in small amounts, only when squeezed).
This occurs even when not during menstruation or ovulation.
Is this normal, doctor?
Answer: Is milk secretion only possible during pregnancy?
Answer: Not necessarily.

Reply Date: 2019/05/27

More Info

Nipple discharge can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, and understanding its normalcy and potential causes is essential for maintaining breast health. Based on your description, it appears that you have been experiencing a clear, slightly white discharge from your right nipple when squeezed, which is not associated with your menstrual cycle or ovulation.
Firstly, it is important to note that nipple discharge can occur for a variety of reasons, and not all of them are indicative of a serious medical condition. In many cases, nipple discharge can be benign and related to hormonal fluctuations, especially if it is not accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, lumps, or changes in the breast tissue.
The most common causes of nipple discharge include:
1. Hormonal Changes: Hormones play a significant role in breast tissue and can lead to discharge. Conditions such as hormonal imbalances, particularly involving prolactin (the hormone responsible for milk production), can lead to discharge even in non-pregnant individuals.

2. Mastitis or Infection: Infections in the breast tissue can lead to discharge, often accompanied by pain, redness, and swelling. This is more common in breastfeeding women but can occur in others as well.

3. Duct Ectasia: This condition occurs when a milk duct beneath the nipple dilates, fills with fluid, and thickens. It can lead to discharge that may be clear, sticky, or even greenish.

4. Fibrocystic Changes: Many women experience fibrocystic breast changes, which can cause lumps and discharge. This is typically benign and related to the menstrual cycle.

5. Intrductal Papilloma: These are small, benign tumors that can form in the milk ducts and may cause discharge. They are usually not serious but should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

6. Breast Cancer: While less common, certain types of breast cancer can present with nipple discharge. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as a lump, changes in breast shape or size, or skin changes.

Regarding your question about whether nipple discharge is only associated with pregnancy, the answer is no. While lactation (milk production) occurs during and after pregnancy, nipple discharge can occur in non-pregnant individuals for the reasons mentioned above.
Given your recent experiences and the negative pregnancy tests, it is likely that you are not pregnant. However, if the discharge persists, changes in color or consistency, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend a physical examination, imaging studies, or laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause of the discharge.

In summary, while some nipple discharge can be normal, especially if it is clear and occurs only when squeezed, it is essential to monitor any changes and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns. Regular breast self-exams and awareness of your body can help you detect any unusual changes early on, ensuring timely evaluation and management if necessary.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Nipple Discharge: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about something. Last Saturday, during intimacy with my husband, I noticed white discharge from my right nipple (similar to a white and transparent pimple). I have been observing it for the past two days, and when I squeeze it, there is a sli...

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Duck: It's generally normal, but if there are any blood-tinged or foul-smelling discharges, a clinic visit for examination is necessary.

Understanding Nipple Discharge: Is It Normal or a Sign of Concern?

Hello, I would like to ask about a situation I've been experiencing. For a while now, I've had itching around my areolas, and I initially thought it was due to changes in the weather. However, a couple of days ago while showering, I noticed some discharge from my nipple...

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Dr. Tsai Yong-long of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, You may be experiencing hyperprolactinemia. Please visit the outpatient clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for further evaluation. Wish...

Understanding Nipple Discharge: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if it is normal for a nipple to initially express a milky white fluid and then, upon further squeezing, to express a clear blood-tinged fluid?

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Xiaoyu: This is likely nipple discharge, but if there is persistent bleeding and a foul odor, it is recommended to visit a clinic for examination.

Understanding Nipple Discharge: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor: For about the past two years, I have been experiencing nipple discharge that resembles sweat (the fluid is clear and salty). It seems to occur more frequently during exercise, and when one side discharges, the other side usually does as well. The amount is typically...

Dr. Tang Yuxiong reply Surgery
Hello, Ms. Cathy: A small amount of clear, watery discharge from the breast is generally normal and may be related to a high-calorie, high-fat diet. However, if the discharge is bloody or occurs in large amounts (persistently leaking without pressure), you should seek medical eva...