nipple discharge whilst using pump?

FloggingMolly

Not even sure anymore
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anyone ever had a little milky looking discharge whilst using a nipple pump?
 
Yes it can happen. I'm writing this on the assumption everything else is fine boob wise? No itching, no lumps etc? Mine was a very small amount but it really freaked me out, I was too embarrassed to tell my GP what we were up to so I said it had just come out :rolleyes:. I was told it can happen from time to time and the cause can be hormonal. He advised me to do a pregnancy test.
If you're really worried see a Dr. You can always lie ;)
 
my dr is gonna call me back, I'm hoping she'll do new blood tests ( have a few hormone issues anyhow), but I think I'll just tell her how it happened... she thinks I'm weird anyhow
 
Suction on the nipple alters the body's hormone levels causing prolactin to rise. Repeated suction may trigger the production of milk (regardless of gender); it sounds like the pumper has triggered lactation.
 
It's weird because I hadnt used it for months... but then I am hormonally challenged so who knows?
The doctor said it sounds like nothing, but I have blood tests tomorrow just to check :)
 
anyone ever had a little milky looking discharge whilst using a nipple pump?

Being a biologist and having breastfed three babies: there is a difference between a nipple pump and a real breast pump. Stimulation of the nipples can cause lactation, a bit of discharge might be a sign of that but don't worry, there are many more hormones needed to get the kind of milk a new mom has. My youngest has been weaned for 18months now and I still get some discharge every now and then, the hormones your body has can tell it to do a great many things. It is most likely a sort of para-lactation. As long as you are healthy and don't have any lumps, pain, redness, swelling and the discharge is clear, milky white or just a bit yellowish, it is fine. Redness, swelling, painful lumps, cloudy yellow, or greenish discharge is a sign of infection and should obviously warrant a visit to the doctor ASAP.
 
Excellent, thank you :)

Hey,

Seems like you've gotten some really good responses already. If it makes you feel any better the same thing happens to me just by the simplest nipple play. I saw an MD about it, and they said it was nothing to worry about.

-This started happening long before my child was ever conceived, and it still happens now - despite having weaned her three years ago.

If it still worries you, I'd totally support the decision to visit the doc, but you're not alone. :)
 
:D

I rang the dr, she's gonna do some basic blood tests to see how my hormones (whch are usually screwed anyhow) are running.

But yes, I feel much better :)
 
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