Nipple Discharge & Itchiness

Nipple discharge can be alarming to many women. Discharge from your nipple is not typical unless you are breast feeding or pregnant, have a hormone imbalance or it's possible you are having a side effect from a certain medicine you are taking. 

 

Discharge that occurs only when the nipple and breast are squeezed may not be a cause for concern. Nipple fluid is most often yellow, green or milky. Discharge that is blood-stained (bright red), brown or crystal clear can be more significant. If it is difficult to tell what colour it is, then putting some fluid onto a white tissue can help.

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The risk of cancer when nipple discharge is the only symptom is fairly low. A lump with the discharge will be of primary concern to your healthcare provider.

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Itching is usually caused by dry skin, eczema or irritation from clothing such as your bra. When it comes to itchy nipples consider what has come in direct contact with your nipple. Products you use may cause nipple itching, like your detergent, body lotion, or fabric softener.

 

Nipples occasionally itch. This is usually nothing to worry about, especially if there's no skin inflammation. But if it's persistent, there may be something like eczema, yeast infection, or mastitis causing it.

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Itchiness of the breast is not usually due to cancer, however there is a condition that effects nipple itch called Paget's Disease and this is a rare condition that can be associated with breast cancer.