Duct papilloma


Duct papilloma


Duct papilloma




If you are unsure of the cause of your breast discharge or you're embarrassed or worried, see your GP, especially if the discharge is bloodstained or only comes from one breast.

Am I pregnant?



If you think you may be pregnant, see your GP or pharmacist for a pregnancy test. You can also read our article on Am I pregnant?

Non-pregnancy causes

If pregnancy has been ruled out, it's likely that your nipple discharge is caused by one of the following conditions:

duct papilloma – this is a harmless growth inside your breast duct (the tube that carries milk from the gland to the nipple) that typically causes bloodstained discharge from one breast

duct ectasia – this is a harmless, age-related breast change that can result in a cheesy or discoloured discharge from both breasts 

breast or nipple abscess – this is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast tissue or around the nipple, usually as a result of bacterial infection

These conditions are explained in more detail below to give you a better idea of whether you may be affected. However, it's important to see your GP for a professional diagnosis and treatment.

Duct papilloma




Although the discharge may be alarming, rest assured that papilloma is not cancer and is not likely to turn into cancer. However, you should still get it checked by your GP so they can rule out breast cancer and offer you any necessary treatment.

Duct ectasia




Even though this condition is harmless and tends to clear up without treatment, it's important that you see your GP so they can rule outbreast cancer. Having duct ectasia does not increase your risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

An abscess

If the discharge contains pus, the cause will probably be abreast abscess or abscess around the nipple.


A breast abscess is usually a complication of mastitis (inflammation of the breast). If you have been to see your GP because of mastitis, you may already have been given antibiotics. If after taking antibiotics your breast is still hard, red and painful, your GP may refer you to a specialist breast unit to confirm the diagnosis of a breast abscess.

More unusual causes

Less common causes of nipple discharge are:

the contraceptive pill – the discharge is usually just a temporary side effect of starting the pill (some women also get breast tenderness and breast enlargement)

fluctuating hormones from puberty or the menopause

previous breastfeeding – some women continue to produce milk up to two years after they've stopped breastfeeding  

stimulation of the nipples, for example through sex

medication that causes raised levels of the milk-producing hormone prolactin – this includes SSRI antidepressants and tranquillisers


a hormone problem such as an underactive thyroid gland orCushing's disease




When you should be referred

Your GP should refer you to a specialist for further investigation if:


you have a bloody discharge

you are a man with nipple discharge


you are over 40

you have a breast lump

your discharge contains blood

only one breast is affected