Finding traces of blood in breast milk can be a frightening experience. However, it happens to many women and is usually not a major problem. Mothers’ usually first notice traces of blood in pumped milk, inside the baby’s mouth after feeding, or in the baby’s diaper. The blood in the breast milk can vary in color being either pink or show more of a rust color. There are several reasons for this to happen and treatment can usually be done at home.
An injured nipple is the most common cause of blood showing up in breast milk. It is caused by improper use of a breast pump, hard sucking from the baby, or the infant not latching on correctly. It is typically referred to as a cracked nipple. Breastfeeding may also become painful. If it hurts too much to breastfeed try using a manual breast pump or hand express the milk into a bottle for the baby. Once the stressed area is healed the blood will stop appearing. There are over the counter ointments available that can help with the healing process and sooth any pain. The baby is in no danger by drinking a little blood, however, if the baby’s stool is very bloody or you are still worried consult your doctor.
Vascular engorgement appears in many first time mothers. The increased blood supply to the breast along with milk production can cause small traces of blood to appear. Also referred to as rusty pipe syndrome, it is considered normal and will stop on its own as the body adapts to the increasing milk production. The common treatment is to let the breasts adjust on it’s own and continue breastfeeding. Wearing fitted bras with regular feedings will help with discomfort.
Fibrocystic change is when the breast becomes firm, lumpy and painful. It is possible to have symptoms even when a woman is not breastfeeding. It is believed to be caused by a change in hormone levels produced by the ovaries. For women not breast feeding it usually happens during menstruation. To help with pain it is usually recommended to take an acetaminophen, wear a well-fitted bra, apply heat or cold to the breast. If you are not breastfeeding, contact your doctor. If you are actively breastfeeding then try changing the feeding positions and make sure that the baby is latching on correctly. To help with engorgement encourage the baby to empty both breasts when feeding. Hot showers and massaging the affected breast may also help ease any discomfort. If bleeding is persistent or heavy contact your physician.
Broken capillaries may also be a cause of traces of blood in the milk supply. This happens when there is trauma to the breast. Not using a breast pump properly or harsh handling of the breast can be the cause. The capillaries will heal themselves as long a proper care is taken and the breasts are treated gently as possible. Alternating feeding position and having the baby latch on correctly will help prevent it from happening. For proper or alternate feeding positions local lactation consultants or your physician can be contacted.
There are some cases in which you should seek medical treatment. If the pain does not go away with over the counter medication, changing of feeding position, and the bleeding continues to persist call your doctor. Call your doctor immediately if the bleeding is heavy or bleeds even when not breastfeeding. Even if you are just worried don’t hesitate on contacting your physician or the hospital where the baby was born at, they are always there to answer any questions.
References:
Dr. Anne Kendall-Tackett, “Help! There is Blood in My Milk,” Pregnancy.org
“Breast Feeding,” Netwellness.UC.edu
“Fibrocystic Breast Disease ,” NCBI – PubMed Health