A successful implantation of an embryo is the first step toward a successful pregnancy. Soon after this implantation, the body starts changing to support and nurture the baby. Breastmilk secretion is one such development in the expecting mother’s body. What if you are not pregnant? What if your breasts are producing breastmilk, but you are not pregnant? Why could this be happening? Come, let’s find out.
Galactorrhea is a condition in which the breasts secrete breast milk even when not pregnant or breastfeeding a baby. This can be a few drops of milk, like liquid or milk itself. The liquid from the nipples can leak on its own suddenly or when the nipples are stimulated. Galactorrhea is not related to pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The very first symptom, and sometimes the only symptom of galactorrhea, is breasts leaking milk or a milk-like substance. In some cases, these additional symptoms may also be present:
● Irregular or missing periods
● Dry vagina
● Low libido
● Acne
● Headaches
● Hair growth on the face or chest
● Erectile dysfunction in men
Some possible reasons for breastmilk secretion without pregnancy are:
1. Tumour – A benign tumour on the pituitary gland is one of the most common causes of an increase in prolactin levels and milk production without pregnancy.
2. Thyroid Disorders – If the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone, it can stimulate breast milk production and cause the milk to be let down. A problem with the thyroid gland can lead to thyroid disorders that can cause galactorrhea.
3. Hormonal Imbalance – Prolactin is a hormone produced by the body during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This hormone is responsible for telling the body to produce breast milk. When the pituitary glands produce an excess of this hormone, the body thinks it is time to lactate and starts producing breast milk.
4. Medications – Medications that can affect hormone levels, like birth control pills, antidepressants, or even blood pressure medications, can cause breast milk secretion.
5. Supplements – Herbal supplements like fenugreek and fennel seeds are common among new mothers to help them increase their breast milk supply. Taking these supplements may cause breast milk secretion for some.
6. Kidney Disease - Stimulation – Overly stimulating the nipples during sexual activities or even during a breast exam can cause some discharge. Wearing tight clothing that causes a lot of friction around the nipples can also cause breast milk secretion.
When you leak milk or a milk-like substance, it is important to consult your doctor without any further delay. They may do the following to confirm the diagnosis and decide the next course of treatment:
● Physical Exam – A physical examination of both breasts and nipples,
● Analysis – An analysis of the breast milk or discharge can help professionals identify what the breasts are secreting.
● Blood Test – A blood test can help check the prolactin level and functioning of the thyroid and check for pregnancy.
● Imaging Tests – A mammogram or an ultrasound of the breasts can help identify tumours, if any. It can also help examine the breast tissue.
For some people, this embarrassing condition will resolve on its own. For others, the healthcare professional may suggest any of the following:
No, it does not affect all women. Galactorrhea may affect only about 20% of the female population. Women in their reproductive age are at a higher risk than others for developing this complication.
In very rare cases, galactorrhea can affect some males too. A tumour on the pituitary gland or hypothyroidism can cause galactorrhea in children and young adults, too.
Galactorrhea can affect children, too. It is common for newborn baby girls to have discharge from their nipples. This happens when high levels of estrogen from the mother’s blood cross the placenta barrier and reach the baby.
While this can be very concerning, in most cases, it is nothing to worry about. However, it is better to consult a doctor right away and treat the underlying issue that could be causing this side effect in children, young adults, or men.
In most cases, breast milk secretion without a pregnancy will stop on its own. If Galactorrhea is due to a tumour in the pituitary gland, the tumour will respond well to treatment. This condition does not generally cause any harm to anyone.
No, this is not a condition that can cause any harm. The breastmilk secretion may stop on its own or may need a little medical assistance. However, it is important to consult a doctor and get all the relevant tests done to rule out other complications.
There is nothing much to worry about if the discharge from the nipples is:
● Clear liquid
● Milk like liquid
● From both breasts
● From several milk ducts
You should consult a doctor immediately if the nipple discharge:
● Is bloody or blood-tinted
● Comes only from one breast
● Comes without any touching or stimulation
● Causes pain or discomfort
● Is foul smelling
● Changes the appearance or colour of your breasts or nipples.
If you are leaking breast milk or any discharge from your nipples when not pregnant or breastfeeding, it can be quite embarrassing. You can try the following tips:
● Wear a padded bra that can soak up the discharge
● Carry disposable breast pads that you can insert into your clothing and replace as and when necessary. These are easy to carry in a small bag and will absorb well, too.
● Use a stylish scarf or a stole to cover your chest in case of leaks. This won’t raise any eyebrows or attract attention.
● Wearing a shrug or a dark-coloured jacket colour can also help.
● If you suffer from regular or excess discharge, always carry an extra set of clothes wherever feasible.
Breast milk secretion without pregnancy is not very common and is nothing to worry about. In most cases, simple medications and changing certain practices can help solve the problem. In some rare cases, it can affect males or newborn babies too. If the problem persists, consult your doctor for some medications or treatment to help stop the milk production.
● No, it is not normal to secrete breast milk when you are not pregnant or breastfeeding. It is a medical disorder known as galactorrhea that can indicate an underlying issue with the pituitary gland.
● Yes, an overproduction of the hormone prolactin can cause breastmilk secretion even without pregnancy.
● Yes, in rare cases, birth control pills, antidepressants, or herbal supplements like fenugreek or fennel seeds can cause breast milk secretion without pregnancy.
