COMMON CONDITIONS
Treating Milk Blisters
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summary
Sometimes inflammation of the ducts causes a white inflamed spot at the tip of the nipple commonly referred to as a bleb. Emerging research has changed how blebs are treated. The focus is on reducing the inflammation and treating any underlying infection. If a bleb is not painful, no treatment is needed — simply wait for the bleb to pass on its own. Some blebs are painful and need treatment. They can be associated with congested breast tissue and potentially mastitis (an infection of the breast tissue).
Equipment Needed:
• Oral lecithin
• Topical moderate potency steroid cream such as 0.1% triamcinolone
Steps:
- If the bleb is painful see your healthcare provider so they may prescribe a mid-potency steroid cream and over-the-counter oral lecithin to help relieve inflammation around the bleb. Note: Do not attempt to lance a bleb as this may cause more inflammation and infection.
- After the bleb has passed, wash your nipple once daily with mild soap and water to prevent infection until the nipple is healed.
- Continue to breastfeed/pump as you normally would.
Follow Up:
Consult with a qualified lactation professional) if you have recurrent blebs. Contact your healthcare provider if you have any signs of infection related to a bleb, such as fever or redness around the affected area on your breast or nipple.
Resources:
Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #36: The Mastitis Spectrum, Revised 2022. BREASTFEEDING MEDICINE Volume 17, Number 5, 2022 ª Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2022.29207.kbm
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