What is the most common cause of galactorrhea?

The most common cause of galactorrhea is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor on your pituitary gland, which leads to excessive production of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia). Prolactin is the hormone responsible for milk production after childbirth. Excess prolactin signals your body to produce milk, resulting in milk leakage from your nipples.

Other causes of galactorrhea include:

• Taking medications such as birth control pills, blood pressure medicine, or antidepressants.
• Overstimulating your breasts through sexual activity, clothing, or frequent breast self-exams.
• Thyroid disorders.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Using herbal supplements like fenugreek or fennel seed.
• Using opioids.
• Injury or trauma to your spinal cord.

What are the symptoms of galactorrhea?

The primary symptom of galactorrhea is leaking a light white, milk-like discharge when you are not breastfeeding or pregnant. This discharge usually affects both breasts and may occur spontaneously or when you squeeze your nipple.

Other associated symptoms of galactorrhea may include:

• Amenorrhea (infrequent or absent menstrual periods).
• Vaginal dryness.
• Headache.
• Reduced sex drive.
• New hair growth on your chest or chin.
• Acne.
• Erectile dysfunction.

Is galactorrhea life threatening?

Typically, galactorrhea is a highly treatable condition. If caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland, it is usually a benign tumor that responds well to treatment.

Does galactorrhea cause weight gain?

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Galactorrhea itself does not cause weight gain. However, elevated prolactin levels and thyroid disorders, both of which are linked to galactorrhea, can be associated with weight gain. If you are experiencing weight gain along with galactorrhea, it may be due to increased prolactin levels and thyroid dysfunction.

Is galactorrhea actually milk?

The milk that leaks from your breasts when you have galactorrhea is considered milk because it’s produced by the same hormone (prolactin) that makes breastmilk in people who’ve just given birth.

How is galactorrhea treated?

Treatment for galactorrhea varies depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, it may resolve on its own without any intervention. To manage the condition, your healthcare provider may suggest:

• Taking medications such as cabergoline and bromocriptine to reduce prolactin levels.
• Avoiding activities that overstimulate your nipples.
• Stopping or changing medications that may be contributing to the condition.
• Taking medication to treat an underactive thyroid if you have hypothyroidism.
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction on your nipples.
• Using breast pads to absorb any leakage.

If a benign pituitary tumor is the cause of galactorrhea and it does not lead to other complications, your provider might decide that no treatment is necessary.