A nipple bleb, sometimes called a milk blister, appears as a tiny white, clear, or yellowish spot on the opening of the nipple. It forms when a milk duct becomes plugged, or a thin layer of skin grows over a duct opening, trapping milk underneath. This issue can cause discomfort and pain, especially during breastfeeding or pumping. This article provides guidance on managing nipple blebs and preventing their recurrence.
Understanding Nipple Blebs
A nipple bleb is a small, raised, blister-like bump, often white, yellow, or clear, located on the nipple’s surface. It can be shiny and smooth. These blebs indicate inflammation within the milk ducts, which are small tubes in the breast that transport milk to the nipples.
Common causes include an oversupply of milk (hyperlactation), engorgement, or pressure on the breast from tight clothing. Symptoms include sharp or shooting pain during feeding or pumping, tenderness, and a feeling of breast fullness that does not resolve with feeding.
Safe Home Care for Nipple Blebs
Applying warm compresses before feeding or pumping can help soften the bleb and help it resolve. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the affected nipple for 10 to 15 minutes. The heat loosens any dried milk or softened skin covering the duct.
Soaking the nipple in warm water or an Epsom salt solution is also beneficial. For an Epsom salt soak, mix one to two cups of Epsom salt into a warm bath and soak for 20 to 30 minutes, or use a shot glass with two tablespoons of Epsom salt and one cup of hot water, placing the nipple directly into the solution for about 15 minutes. Epsom salt can help reduce inflammation and promote duct emptying.
Gentle massage of the affected area towards the nipple opening, particularly during or after a warm soak, helps dislodge the blockage. Use light, circular motions, being careful not to apply excessive pressure that could cause further irritation. This action helps work the plug out, facilitating milk flow.
Applying a small amount of olive oil to the nipple also softens the skin. Soak a cotton ball in olive oil and place it over the nipple inside your bra for 20 to 30 minutes, or even overnight. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties and moisturizes the skin, which helps dislodge the bleb. Before feeding, gently wipe any oil residue from the nipple.
Continuing to nurse or pump frequently on the affected side helps maintain milk flow and clear the blockage. Positioning the baby with their chin pointed towards the bleb during feeding encourages more effective drainage of that area. This positioning uses the baby’s suction to help clear the bleb. Maintaining good nipple hygiene by gently wiping the nipple with a moist cloth after feeding also helps prevent clogged pores.
When Professional Help is Needed
If a nipple bleb does not resolve with home care within 24 to 48 hours, or if it becomes increasingly painful, seek medical attention. Prolonged or severe pain requires consulting a healthcare provider.
Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, pus, fever, or chills, require immediate medical evaluation. An untreated bleb can lead to a breast infection like mastitis. If nipple blebs are a recurrent problem, consulting a doctor or a lactation consultant can help identify causes and develop a preventative plan.
Preventing Nipple Blebs
Ensuring a deep and effective latch during breastfeeding reduces the risk of nipple blebs. A proper latch helps the baby efficiently drain the breast, preventing milk from becoming stagnant and blocking ducts. This also minimizes nipple trauma, which can contribute to bleb formation.
Varying feeding positions helps ensure that all milk ducts are emptied evenly, reducing blockages. Experiment with different holds, such as the football hold or side-lying position, to promote thorough milk drainage. This ensures consistent milk flow and prevents milk from accumulating.
Promptly addressing any signs of engorgement or milk stasis is beneficial. If the breasts feel overly full or lumpy, frequent feeding or pumping can help prevent milk from backing up and forming blebs. This approach helps maintain consistent milk flow.
Wearing well-fitting, non-constricting bras is recommended, as tight clothing can put pressure on the milk ducts and impede milk flow, contributing to bleb formation. Some individuals find that taking lecithin supplements, typically around 3600-4800 mg per day, can help by promoting a smoother milk flow, potentially by reducing the stickiness of the milk.