When should you see a doctor about nipple discharge?

Discharge may come from changes in a milk duct, irritation, infection, medicines, or hormone-related conditions. Duct ectasia and an intraductal papilloma can cause discharge. Hyperprolactinaemia can lead to milky discharge when you are not breastfeeding. Breast cancer and Paget disease of the breast are less common causes, but need consideration when discharge is one-sided, spontaneous, bloody, or linked with a breast or nipple change.

Note the colour, thickness, amount, and whether the fluid appears without squeezing. Record which breast is affected, how long it has been present, and any medicines, pregnancy, breastfeeding, injury, fever, rash, or lump. Avoid repeatedly checking by squeezing, because this can keep discharge going. A clinician may examine your breast and decide whether imaging or a laboratory test is appropriate.

Arrange prompt assessment for bloody or clear discharge, discharge from one breast, a new lump, nipple inversion, crusting, redness, or a change in breast shape. Seek urgent medical help if discharge occurs with a hot, very painful breast, spreading redness, fever, or feeling faint. These features can signal infection or another problem needing timely treatment.

Ask what may be causing the discharge, whether you need breast imaging, which changes should prompt faster review, and whether any medicine or hormone issue could contribute. Ask how to care for the nipple while waiting.