Causes for Abnormal Lactation

While lactation is a completely normal process, it can be a bit disconcerting when you begin to lactate when you shouldn't--for instance, when you aren't breastfeeding, have never been pregnant or are post-menopausal. Abnormal lactation can be described as the leaking of fluid or discharge from the nipple at either an unexpected time or in a manner that is unusual or a cause for concern. Some cases of abnormal lactation involve the leaking of fluid that looks like milk; however, other cases involve discharge containing blood or pus. The reasons for abnormal lactation vary, so it is important you see your doctor should you experience this condition.

Breast Abscess

One common reason for lactation that falls outside the realm of the normal is an abscess in the breast. Often referred to as mastitis, this condition is an infection of the breast tissue or milk duct. Usually, it is caused by a milk duct getting clogged in a woman who is breastfeeding. Treatment usually involves a round of antibiotics and creams to soothe the inflamed breast tissue.

Breast Injury

A recent injury to the breast can also be to blame for abnormal lactation. Being struck in the breast tissue can cause fluid to leak from the nipple. However, this is not milk, and is usually just a result of irritation.

Medications

Some medications actually can cause abnormal lactation. Examples of these drugs include birth control pills, methyldopa, phenothiazines and tricyclic antidepressants. Of course, even if you think your lactation is being caused by one of these drugs, you should still see your doctor.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can sometimes cause lactation in non-pregnant or nursing women. This is usually due to an overall irritation of the breast tissue or the presence of a tumor in a milk duct.

Intraductal Papilloma

You may also lactate in an unusual manner if there is something called an intraductal papilloma in your breast tissue. This is actually a growth or tumor, but it's benign. Such growths often need to be surgically removed, but they are generally not harmful, other than the irritation they cause.

Prolactinoma

A rare cause of abnormal lactation is something called a prolactinoma, which is a benign tumor located on the pituitary gland. This tumor secretes prolactin, a hormone that causes the body to begin lactating as it accumulates. Efforts will be made to reduce the size of the tumor and to drop the levels of prolactin in the blood back down to normal as a course of treatment; however, surgery is sometimes required.