Experiencing nipple bleeding while breastfeeding can be alarming. This occurrence is common and usually not indicative of a serious underlying issue, so breastfeeding can often continue. Understanding the reasons can help alleviate apprehension and guide appropriate action.
Is it Safe for Your Baby?
A primary concern for parents is the baby’s safety. Small amounts of blood in breast milk are harmless. Babies can digest this without adverse effects. Occasionally, a baby might spit up milk with blood, or parents may notice dark flecks in the baby’s stool, which is digested blood. Breastfeeding is safe, even with bleeding.
Common Causes of Nipple Bleeding
Nipple bleeding during breastfeeding stems from several common sources. One frequent cause is nipple trauma, due to an improper latch or suboptimal breastfeeding position. When a baby does not attach deeply enough, the nipple can become pinched or rubbed, leading to cracks, abrasions, or fissures. These injuries can then bleed, especially during or after feeding.
Another common cause is “rusty pipe syndrome.” This occurs in the early postpartum period. It is characterized by old blood in the milk ducts, giving early breast milk a pink, reddish-brown, or rust-colored appearance. This is due to increased blood flow and vascularization as milk production increases, allowing blood to seep into the milk.
Capillary damage can also contribute. Capillaries within the breast can rupture due to strong suction from the baby or improper breast pump use (e.g., incorrect flange size or excessive suction). This causes blood to leak into the milk. Less common causes include mastitis, especially if it leads to cracked nipples, and thrush, which can cause severe cracking and pain leading to bleeding.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While most nipple bleeding is benign, certain signs indicate the need for medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if bleeding is persistent, increasing in volume, or does not resolve within a few days. Severe pain accompanying bleeding, or pain not improving with technique adjustments, warrants medical attention.
Signs of infection, such as fever, redness, warmth, swelling, or pus around the nipple, require immediate assessment. Any new lump or mass in the breast, or sudden bleeding without an obvious cause like nipple trauma, also requires consultation. If your baby shows unusual symptoms or distress after feeding, seek professional advice.
Managing Nipple Bleeding and Preventing Recurrence
Managing nipple bleeding and preventing recurrence involves addressing breastfeeding mechanics and good nipple care. Ensuring a proper latch and comfortable positioning is key, as this is the most common factor in nipple trauma. A lactation consultant can provide guidance on achieving an effective latch, which prevents further irritation. Varying breastfeeding positions also reduce pressure on specific nipple areas.
For healing cracked or sore nipples, apply purified lanolin cream or expressed breast milk after feeding. Allowing nipples to air dry after feeding promotes healing. Warm compresses soothe discomfort, while cold packs can numb the area before a feed, making the initial latch less painful. Avoid harsh soaps or scented products on the nipples, as these can cause further irritation.
If one side is more painful or bleeding, temporarily pump from that breast to maintain milk supply while allowing the nipple to heal. Feed from the less sore breast first, then switch to the affected side once milk flow has initiated to reduce discomfort. If using a breast pump, ensure correct flange size and appropriate suction settings to prevent further trauma. Consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for tailored advice and support.