Overview
Rarely, it can swell or leak during puberty, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
It can be just a small brown bump or a full nipple with breast tissue underneath.
In rare cases, it can be linked to kidney differences, so a doctor may check.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Extra nipple
Less common
- Swelling during puberty or pregnancy
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA hard lump or bloody discharge.
See a doctor soonChanges in size or color.
Causes
Born with it.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
- It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.
Who is more likely to get it
- Family history
Diagnosis
A clinician can tell by looking.
Treatment
No treatment needed.
Self-care
- Check it like other skin spots
- Check it during regular skin and breast self-checks
- Note any swelling during periods or pregnancy
Simple removal if it bothers you.
Prevention
It can't be prevented.
- None needed
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Breastfeeding: It may leak a little milk.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Harmless.
It never needs treatment unless you want it removed.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Is this an extra nipple or a mole?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.