Why are my nipples leaking at 56

[ILoveResidentAlien]

strange one here. My right nipple has stated to leak when played with or sucked. I had a mammogram in May and it started about 3 weeks after. I’ve been to the doctors and they’re really not bothered about it. I am and don’t know what to do. It’s a bit concerning. I’ve had a complete hysterectomy about 16 years ago and finished hrt 8 years ago. Anyone else come across this?

Mention to your gp, it can be a symptom of cancer

Could also be benign eg problem with a duct! Sorry should have mentioned that too

Sometimes benign tumours in the pituitary gland can secrete prolactin and this causes the secretion from your nipples. Can sometimes cause visual problems too with visual fields. Worth getting a check at the opticians then going back to GP

Have you cuddled any newborns lately? That always set me off

I would push your gp for investigation, no way would I let it go without a thorough check.
Could be totally benign but not worth the risk.
Kick up a stink if you have to.

(Resident alien is great :D )

It says in the op that she has been to the doctors.

At 56? 😳

I've had this for years, it was triggered initially by taking Quietipine, an anti psychotic which raised my prolactin levels. Im not now taking it, prolactin is normal but left nipple still leaking.

Mammograms are clear and GP isn't overly bothered.
I hope you get some answers, I've drawn a blank

yes, from the age of about 14. I am genetically prone to breast cancer. Yes it can be a sign of cancer, but I have been told by an oncologist that "superlactators" actually have protection from breast cancer.

Obviously OP hasn't had this happen before, as she is surprised, but it still could be triggered by a crying baby, or a new born. In my case it also happened just when I got news of a friend or relative giving birth 😂

Every day’s a school day.

It’s not unheard of for new grandmas to spontaneously relactate when a new baby arrives and they are having lots of contact.

It’s frustrating that your GP is dismissing it without investigating, @ILoveResidentAlien is there another in the practice that you can see for a second opinion?

I’ve not been near any babies. 😢

I think I’ll ask for a second opinion. It’s been like it for 4 weeks now.

It can be a sign of prolactinoma, I have one.

A leaking nipple was the only symptom of my mum’s breast cancer (which wasn’t picked up on a mammogram). It was completely within the duct. She was 57. I’m surprised the GP wasn’t at all fussed?

I would add that prolactinomas should shrink post menopause, so certainly get it checked out.

Yes, ask for a second opinion. I’m sure it’s nothing but you will keep worrying until it’s properly investigated and you have an answer xx