Witches’ milk, medically known as neonatal galactorrhea or neonatal breast engorgement, is a common occurrence in some newborns. It involves the secretion of a milky fluid from the infant’s nipples. It is a transient condition that resolves without intervention. It is a physiological response, not a sign of illness, despite its unusual appearance.
Understanding Witches Milk
The primary cause of witches’ milk is the transfer of maternal hormones to the fetus during pregnancy. High levels of maternal estrogen pass across the placenta into the baby’s bloodstream. These hormones can stimulate the newborn’s mammary glands, leading to breast enlargement and sometimes milk production.
The discharge from the infant’s nipples can appear milky, clear, or slightly yellowish. Its consistency is thin, similar to breast milk. It results from disappearing maternal hormones in the infant’s system after birth. It is distinct from issues like blocked milk ducts, which involve localized pain and swelling.
When Witches Milk Appears and What to Expect
Witches’ milk appears within the first few days or weeks following birth. This phenomenon can affect both male and female infants, with about 5% of newborns experiencing it. Full-term infants are more likely to exhibit this condition compared to premature babies, who tend to have less developed breast tissue.
The condition resolves on its own as the maternal hormones dissipate from the infant’s system. It disappears within a few weeks to a few months after birth, with many cases resolving by two months of age. No specific treatment is necessary, as it is a benign and self-limiting condition.
Monitoring and When to Consult a Doctor
Parents should avoid squeezing or massaging the newborn’s breasts if witches’ milk is present. Manipulating the breast tissue can cause irritation, increase discharge production, and potentially lead to infection, such as mastitis or abscesses. The best approach is to leave the area alone and allow the condition to resolve naturally.
While witches’ milk is harmless, certain signs warrant medical attention. These include redness, warmth, tenderness, or swelling around the breast area, pus-like discharge, fever, or if the discharge persists beyond six months of age. These symptoms could indicate a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, which might require antibiotic treatment.