discharge

[nicnic]

I wrote you a few months ago about nipple discharge that I have had since the birth of my twins 3 years ago, never breastfed, nipple discharge is only when breasts are squeezed, can express the discharge at any time(not only certain times of the month).
You had said that it is normal to have this when they are squuezed.  My questions is how much longer can I expect this to happen, or could it be the rest of my life?  Every Doctor that I have talked to does not seem concerned.  My prolatin level was normal.  They have never tested the fluid that is expressed,is that something they should check or is it not necessary.  I feel very uncomfrotable about this and because of it I wear a bra all the time, even to bed.  I do notice white flakes in my bra, I am assuming that is dry milk.  

Thank you !

[dian]

I am recovering from total ductectomy surgery. I had a spontaneous bloody discharge. A cyst was found on the ultrasound (not on the mammo) It was decided that the ductectomy was the best solution. Aside from being uncomfortable and can"t shower I am doing pretty well. Get another opinion. My discharge started out clear then turned milky then turned bloody.  dian

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear nicnic:  It is not uncommon for women to have nipple discharge when nipples are squeezed.  Discharge is more common during puberty and menopause but it can happen any time.  Other factors that can contribute to nipple discharge are medications such as the birth control pill, certain blood pressure medications, tranquillizers, and by some reports, antidepressants.  Nipple dishcarge is not concerning unless it is spontaneous, bloody or clear and sticky, and unilateral.  It is impossible to know how long your situation will last.  You can ask your doctor about doing ductal lavage or ductoscopy but there may be no medical reason to pursue this option at this point.