White Discharge and Hardness in the Right Nipple During Puberty - Breast and Thyroid

Share to:

Breast Consultation


Hello, doctor.
I have a white discharge from my right nipple, and when I press on it, it feels hard and does not move.
Is this something that is normal during puberty?

Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/05

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid


Dear Student: If the nipple is hard, it is important to observe for any enlargement, and to check for any discharge, particularly for the presence of blood-stained or foul-smelling discharge.
If either of these two conditions is present, a clinic examination is necessary.

Reply Date: 2015/11/05

More Info


During puberty, many changes occur in the body, including the development of breast tissue. It is not uncommon for adolescents to experience various breast-related symptoms, including discharge and changes in texture. In your case, the white discharge from the right nipple and the hardness you feel when pressing on it can be attributed to several factors that are generally benign but should be monitored.

1. Hormonal Changes: During puberty, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, particularly an increase in estrogen. This hormone plays a crucial role in breast development and can lead to the formation of glandular tissue, which may cause some areas of the breast to feel firm or hard. This is a normal part of breast development.

2. Mammary Gland Development: The breast is composed of glandular tissue, ducts, and fatty tissue. As you go through puberty, the mammary glands develop, and this can sometimes lead to localized areas of firmness or lumpiness. The white discharge you are experiencing could be related to the secretion from these developing glands.

3. Ductal Changes: The milk ducts in the breast can also undergo changes during puberty. Sometimes, these ducts can become blocked or filled with fluid, leading to discharge. This is typically not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, redness, or swelling.

4. Fibrocystic Changes: Some adolescents may experience fibrocystic changes, where the breast tissue becomes lumpy or rope-like. This condition is often related to hormonal fluctuations and is usually benign. It can cause discomfort but is generally not harmful.

5. Infection or Other Conditions: While less common, it is essential to rule out any infections or other conditions that could cause discharge or hardness in the breast. If the discharge is persistent, has an unusual color or odor, or if you experience pain, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—white discharge and hardness in the right nipple—are likely related to the normal physiological changes occurring during puberty. However, it is essential to monitor these symptoms. If they persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other concerning signs, such as pain or changes in the breast's appearance, seeking medical advice is recommended. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough examination and, if necessary, conduct tests to ensure everything is normal. Remember, open communication with a trusted adult or healthcare provider about any changes in your body is crucial for your health and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Yellow Discharge from Right Nipple: Causes and Concerns for Teens

Recently, a second-year junior high school student has been experiencing yellow discharge from the right nipple. The discharge dries up and becomes hard. Initially, there was only a small amount of discharge, but after two days it disappeared, and then reappeared two days later, ...


Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: The discharge sediment that accumulates at the nipple can sometimes feel hard. This discharge is related to the balance of secretions in the body. Breast itching is also associated with individual constitution and endocrine issues. It is recommended to maintain a regular l...

[Read More] Yellow Discharge from Right Nipple: Causes and Concerns for Teens


Understanding White Discharge and Indentations in Teenage Breasts

Hello, doctor! My daughter is 17 years old. Her left nipple appears light red and has a dent. There is no discharge when not touched, but white discharge appears when touched. About once every 1-2 days, her right nipple also shows light red and has some white discharge. There are...


Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
Currently, there shouldn't be any urgent examination issues; it's advisable to wait until after the pandemic to visit the outpatient clinic for a check-up.

[Read More] Understanding White Discharge and Indentations in Teenage Breasts


Understanding White Nipple Discharge in Adolescents: Is It Normal?

I am currently in the seventh grade, and I have had a milky white discharge from my breasts since around fifth grade, but it only comes out when squeezed and has no odor. Is this a normal phenomenon during puberty? Could it be breast cancer? I am really scared.


Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Anonymous: As long as there is no change in color and no increase in discharge, you can simply observe.

[Read More] Understanding White Nipple Discharge in Adolescents: Is It Normal?


Understanding Itchy Nipples: Causes and Concerns for Teens

Hello, doctor! My 15-year-old daughter has been experiencing severe itching in her nipple recently. Upon inspection, I noticed that the right nipple has turned dark, and there is a small, soft, sticky, and moist bump near the nipple (within the areola area) that secretes fluid. W...


Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
That is a normal distribution of glands on the areola and does not require concern.

[Read More] Understanding Itchy Nipples: Causes and Concerns for Teens


Related FAQ

Nipples

(Breast and Thyroid)

Areola

(Breast and Thyroid)

Areola Itching

(Breast and Thyroid)

Gynecomastia

(Breast and Thyroid)

Breast Calcification

(Breast and Thyroid)

Nipple Discharge

(Family Medicine)

Breast Cyst

(Breast and Thyroid)

Nipples

(Dermatology)

Nipple Discharge

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Hyperthyroidism

(Breast and Thyroid)