What is the reason for blood in breast milk? What should I do if there is blood in breast milk?

Many breastfeeding mothers may have experienced blood in their breast milk. Mothers must first find out the cause of the bleeding to ensure the safety of their breast milk. So what is the reason for blood in breast milk? What should I do if there is blood in my breast milk?

What is the cause of blood in breast milk?

1. Nipple cracks: The biggest reason for blood in breast milk is nipple cracks and bleeding. When breastfeeding, it is easy to break the nipple due to dryness, constant friction, or the baby pulling the nipple, so strawberry milk will appear when feeding or collecting milk.

2. Rusty pipe syndrome: In the first few days after giving birth, breast milk will rush to expand your milk ducts, causing the cells in the breasts responsible for breast milk to grow rapidly. This is called rusty pipe syndrome or vascular congestion, which may cause blood in your colostrum.

3. Intraductal papilloma: An intraductal papilloma is a small, benign growth that looks like a wart in the lining of the milk duct. Sometimes it may wear off and bleed, appearing in the breast milk.

4. Due to ruptured capillaries: Your breasts contain small blood vessels or capillaries. When you use the breast pump incorrectly, it may cause breast injury and capillary rupture, so blood leaks into the breast milk.

5. Because of breast inflammation: Mastitis is a breast infection, which can cause bleeding. If you have breast inflammation, you will also find that your breasts are red, swollen, painful, and even slightly warm. If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.

6. Because of breast cancer: Breast cancer is the least common cause, so don't panic. Generally speaking, blood in breast milk will disappear in about a week and no treatment is needed. But if your bleeding lasts for more than a week, it is best to consult a doctor. Some forms of breast cancer can cause bleeding from the nipples.

What to do if there is blood in breast milk

1. Apply sheep fat ointment: If your nipples are bleeding due to cracked skin, you can apply sheep fat ointment to moisturize your nipples. You can consult your doctor for advice on which nipple cream is more suitable.

2. Treat infection and inflammation: If your bleeding is caused by infection or inflammation of the milk line, you should first receive antibiotic treatment. Wait until you recover before continuing to breastfeed.

3. Adjust the breastfeeding method: If your baby cannot suck correctly, it may cause a lot of pain and cracks in your nipples, so you should ask a lactation consultant for advice to find out the correct feeding method.

Can I feed my baby if there is blood in my breast milk?

In most cases, you can continue to feed your baby as long as you are sure that there is no infection or disease that can be passed on to your baby. However, your baby may refuse to eat because of the taste of iron in the blood.