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Milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea)

Also called: Galactorrhea, milky nipple discharge

Milky discharge from the nipples when not breastfeeding, often from medicines or a high prolactin level.

CheckProlactin

Overview

High prolactin can come from medicines, an underactive thyroid, or a small benign pituitary tumor (prolactinoma).

Discharge from both breasts is usually not cancer; bloody discharge from one breast needs a check.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Milky nipple discharge
  • Milky nipple discharge without breastfeeding

Less common

  • Missed periods
  • Low sex drive
  • Headaches

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayHeadaches with vision changes.
See a doctor soonDischarge.

Causes

Medicines, prolactinoma.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Women: More common
  • People taking some mental health or stomach medicines: Higher risk

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Blood tests.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Prolactin:
  • Pregnancy test:

Treatment

Find the cause.

Self-care

  • Avoid squeezing the nipple
  • Avoid tight bras

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Men: Can also have it.
  • Women not breastfeeding: Needs a check.

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

Treatable.

Treating the cause stops it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • Could my medicines cause this?

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.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.