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When to see a doctor
By Mayo Clinic staffRarely is nipple discharge a sign of breast cancer. But it might be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment. If you're still having periods and your nipple discharge doesn't resolve on its own after your next menstrual cycle, or if it's particularly bothersome, make an appointment with your doctor to have it evaluated. If you're postmenopausal and experience nipple discharge at any time, see your doctor right away.
In the meantime, take care to avoid nipple stimulation — including frequent checks for discharge — because stimulation actually makes the discharge persist.
- Non-cancerous breast conditions. American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6X_Non_Cancerous_Breast_Conditions_59.asp?sitearea. Accessed Jan. 5, 2009.
- Golshan M, et al. Nipple discharge. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
- Breast disorders. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: The Merck Manual Home Edition. http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec22/ch251/ch251a.html. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
