Montgomery glands, also known as areolar glands or Tubercles of Montgomery, are specialized structures found on the areola, the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. Present in all adults, they are classified as modified sebaceous glands that produce and secrete an oily substance. Though often unnoticed, these formations play a role in maintaining the health and function of the nipple and areola.
Visual Characteristics and Location
Montgomery glands appear as small, raised bumps or papules located directly on the areola. These bumps often resemble goosebumps or tiny pimples, but they are normal glandular openings, not blemishes. They are typically arranged in a circular pattern around the nipple, though their distribution can vary.
The appearance of these glands can differ significantly in terms of size, number, and color. They are generally skin-toned, but they may appear slightly lighter or darker than the surrounding areola. The number of visible glands can range widely, from just a few to as many as 40 on each breast, with an average often cited between 10 and 15.
The glands are usually small, often measuring only 1 to 2 millimeters across, though they can become larger under certain conditions. In some instances, the oily secretion may collect at the opening, giving the tubercle a waxy or yellowish appearance. The areola’s size does not correlate with the number of glands present.
The Glands Physiological Role
These glands produce a complex secretion known as sebum, a protective, oily substance. The function of this sebum is to moisturize the skin of the nipple and areola, keeping the skin pliable and preventing dryness or cracking. This natural lubrication maintains skin integrity.
The oily coating also possesses inherent antimicrobial properties, which helps protect the nipple area from bacterial growth and infection. Beyond lubrication and protection, the glands play a unique role through olfactory signaling, emitting volatile compounds that produce a specific scent.
This scent is believed to attract newborn infants to the breast and stimulate their feeding reflexes. The aroma is sometimes described as similar to amniotic fluid, helping guide the baby to the nipple immediately after birth. This odor acts as a natural cue, promoting successful latching and initiating the breastfeeding process.
How Glands Change Throughout Life
The appearance of Montgomery glands is not static, as they respond dynamically to hormonal fluctuations throughout life. Hormonal shifts during puberty can make the glands more noticeable, and minor changes may also occur during the regular menstrual cycle.
A significant increase in prominence occurs during pregnancy due to elevated levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The glands often become substantially more raised, enlarged, and may appear darker than before. This transformation can be one of the earliest physical signs of pregnancy, sometimes occurring before a missed menstrual period.
The glands remain prominent throughout lactation as they fulfill their role of lubricating the skin and providing olfactory cues for the baby. Once breastfeeding ceases, or after childbirth for those who do not breastfeed, the glands typically shrink back toward their pre-pregnancy size, although they may not always return entirely to their original state.