Nipple discharge (not pregnant or bf)

[GiantCheeseMonster]

I went to put some bras in the wash and noticed a couple had a small stain on the inside of the left cup, so that nipple has been leaking a bit. It looks like clear fluid and it’s only a small amount. I don’t know how long it’s been happening for but I wear a bra for a few days before washing (I read on MN that that was OK!) so it could be a couple of weeks or a few days. It’s only one side and I’m definitely not pregnant and stopped bf 7 years ago, so it’s not that. I’m 40, for context. I can’t feel any lumps in my breast but obviously I know it’s a possible cancer symptom so I’m worrying. I’ve phoned the GP and I’ve got a phone appointment on Wednesday. Just looking for any reassurance or other advice really while I wait for that.

It can be a side effect of contraception. I've had this for years (20+) and always been told it's not an issue of concern by Drs etc

Are you on the mini pill? I had this side effect along with extremely sore breasts, I stopped taking it and haven't has it again.

Should’ve said, no, I’m not. DH had a vasectomy a few years ago so no contraception.

Are you on any medication at all? Can be a side effect for some medicines

No, nothing. No meds, no changes to diet or health I can think of. No breast pain. Just the stain in my bras.

Do you have any issues with your periods (ie irregular)? I have PCOS and at one point my prolactin levels were very high, which sent my periods haywire, even though at that time i had never been pregnant. Dr warned me that i might get some nipple discharge (ie basically milk!) as a result because my hormones were acting as i were bf even though i wasnt.

No, I’m pretty regular and I’m sure I’ve not got PCOS. I honestly can’t think of anything it could be, which is why I’m freaking out a bit.

I would see your GP as soon as possible

Oh that's interesting about PCOS as I had one sided discharge about 5 years ago. It was clear/'orangey but there was a lot of it. Had a load of tests and nothing found. Was told it was due to stress (?!) but wouldn't surprise me if it was my weird PCOS hormones.

I did get breast cancer 4 years later but in the other breast so don't think it was related at all. Although it was ER+ so again seems to have been connected with hormone levels.

When I had the discharge the consultant said not to worry about it unless it was red or pink. Still worth getting checked but most likely not to be anything worrying.

I said in my OP, I’ve got a phone appointment on Wednesday.

I have had this twice and both times it was nothing but they should refer you anyway

I don't know how old you are but this has been an issue since I was 40 and I'm now 49. Think it's changing hormones. It ended up being old milk ducts still producing. Called duct ectasia.

Thank you. I spoke to the doctor and have a f2f appointment on Tuesday next week. It’s not happened since I first noticed it but I still think I need to get it checked for peace of mind.

Hello, old post I know, but may I ask what the GP said? Was it serious? Experiencing the same today. Thank you.