Finding blood in breast milk can be a surprising and unsettling experience for parents. Understanding the reasons behind it and knowing how to respond can help alleviate worry and provide clarity on whether to continue feeding your baby.
Common Reasons for Blood
One frequent cause of blood in breast milk stems from cracked or sore nipples. An improper latch during breastfeeding or vigorous pumping can irritate the delicate nipple tissue, leading to small abrasions that bleed into the milk. Addressing the latch or pumping technique often helps these issues resolve.
Another common phenomenon is “rusty pipe syndrome,” which typically occurs in the first few days postpartum. This happens due to increased blood flow and rapid development of milk-producing cells in the breast. The blood can seep into the colostrum or early milk, giving it a pink, orange, or reddish-brown appearance. This condition is usually temporary, resolving on its own within three to seven days after birth.
Small blood vessels within the breast can also be damaged. This can occur from trauma or from using a breast pump with too much suction. When these fragile vessels break, blood can leak into the milk. Adjusting pumping intensity can help prevent this.
Less frequently, benign growths called intraductal papillomas may cause blood in breast milk. These small, non-cancerous growths can sometimes bleed. While generally harmless, they can lead to bloody nipple discharge. Mastitis, a breast infection, can also sometimes result in blood-tinged milk.
Safety for Your Baby
In most instances, a small amount of blood in breast milk is not harmful to a healthy, full-term baby. Babies are typically able to digest the small quantities of blood without any adverse effects. The nutritional benefits provided by breast milk usually outweigh any risks associated with minor blood contamination.
You might observe some minor changes in your baby after they consume milk with blood. For example, your baby may spit up milk that appears reddish or has a pinkish tinge. Additionally, their stools might appear darker or have black flecks due to the digested blood. These minor changes are generally not a cause for concern.
Making the Decision to Feed or Discard
When you notice blood in your breast milk, it is generally safe to continue breastfeeding or feeding expressed milk if the amount is minor and the cause is attributed to common issues like sore nipples or “rusty pipe syndrome.” These situations are typically benign and self-limiting. Continuing to nurse or pump helps clear the ducts and can facilitate healing, rather than stopping abruptly.
You might consider discarding milk if the amount of blood is significant, if the bleeding is persistent beyond a few days, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. While not always medically necessary for the baby’s safety, discarding milk can provide peace of mind or be advisable if a medical evaluation is pending. If your baby consistently refuses the milk due to a change in taste from the blood, or experiences significant vomiting, discarding that particular milk might be preferred. Applying nipple creams for cracked nipples or adjusting your baby’s latch can help resolve the underlying cause of the bleeding.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
It is advisable to seek medical advice if the bleeding in your breast milk is heavy or does not resolve within approximately one week. You should also consult a healthcare provider if you experience significant pain, redness, swelling, or fever, as these could indicate a breast infection like mastitis.
If the cause of the blood is unknown, or if you suspect it might be related to something other than common nipple issues or “rusty pipe syndrome,” a medical consultation is important. Additionally, if your baby shows unusual symptoms after feeding, such as excessive vomiting or signs of distress, it is prudent to contact your pediatrician. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the underlying cause and offer personalized guidance and treatment.