Chlorpromazine-type drugs and birth control pills may also cause a milky nipple discharge. Breast-feeding women should be taught to clean the breasts well before and after feedings and to use breast pads to help maintain dryness between feedings. Breast creams may be used to help keep the nipple area lubricated and supple. A mammography is usually performed if the cause is not readily evident. A breast biopsy is performed if a mass or lump is found, or it the discharge is occurring spontaneously from one duct.
Treatment depends upon an accurate diagnosis of the cause.
It may range from observation and reassurance, to prescribing medications, to surgery or other treatments. Most causes of nipple problems do not involve breast cancer and can be managed or resolved with adequate treatment. A nipple discharge may be a symptom of breast cancer . Call for an appointment with your health care provider if nipple problems occur. This illustration shows an anatomical cross-section, both side and front views, of the female breast.