Discovering blood in breast milk can be startling, triggering concern for both baby and mother. While unsettling, small amounts of blood are common, especially early in breastfeeding. This temporary phenomenon often resolves on its own, attributed to benign factors.
Is It Safe for the Baby?
A small quantity of blood in breast milk is generally not harmful to an infant. A baby’s digestive system can handle minor blood, which is usually digested without issues. The amount is often so minimal that the baby may not detect it, continuing to feed as usual.
Occasionally, a baby might spit up blood-tinged milk, or their stool may appear darker, even black, due to digested blood. This usually indicates stomach irritation, not a serious health problem. Unless the mother has certain bloodborne diseases like HIV or hepatitis, continuing to breastfeed is generally safe.
Why Blood Appears in Breast Milk
Several common reasons can explain the appearance of blood in breast milk, most of which are temporary. One common cause is “rusty pipe syndrome,” occurring in the first week postpartum. Rapid growth and increased blood flow to the breasts as milk production begins can cause small amounts of blood to seep into the milk ducts, giving the milk a brownish or reddish tint. This condition typically resolves within 7 to 10 days as the body adjusts.
Another frequent cause is cracked or sore nipples, which can bleed into the milk during feeding or pumping. This often stems from an improper latch, where the baby does not take enough breast tissue into their mouth, leading to irritation and damage. Gentle handling during pumping and ensuring a proper latch can help prevent and heal such nipple trauma.
Broken capillaries within the breast tissue can also lead to blood in breast milk. These tiny blood vessels can rupture due to engorgement, vigorous breast massage, or incorrect use of a breast pump with excessive suction. Benign growths, such as intraductal papillomas (small, non-cancerous lumps on the lining of the milk ducts), can also cause bleeding into the milk.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While blood in breast milk is often harmless, specific situations warrant medical advice. If the amount of blood is large, appears to be increasing, or persists for more than a few days (beyond the initial week of “rusty pipe syndrome”), consult a healthcare provider. Continuous bleeding past the first week postpartum should always be discussed with a doctor.
Medical attention is also advised if the mother experiences significant pain, swelling, redness, or a fever, which could indicate a breast infection like mastitis. If a new lump is discovered in the breast that does not resolve or continues to grow, this should be evaluated promptly. Additionally, if the baby shows signs of illness, such as repeated vomiting, unusual or tar-like stools, or a refusal to feed, it is important to contact a pediatrician.