Is it normal for blood to come out when breastfeeding?

Understanding Blood in Breast Milk: Is It Normal?
For many new mothers, the sight of blood in breast milk can be alarming. However, it is important to understand that this phenomenon is not uncommon and can occur for various reasons.
Common Causes of Blood in Breast Milk
Blood in breast milk can arise from several factors, primarily related to the mother’s health. One of the most frequent causes is cracked or sore nipples, which can occur during the early days of breastfeeding as both mother and baby adjust to the process. When the skin is damaged, it can lead to small amounts of blood mixing with the milk.
Another potential cause is internal physiological changes that can happen shortly after childbirth. During the initial days of breastfeeding, some mothers may notice blood due to these changes, which are typically temporary and resolve on their own.
Safety and Recommendations
Despite the initial shock, it is generally safe to continue breastfeeding even if blood is present in the milk. Experts advise that, in most cases, the blood is not harmful to the baby. Continuing to breastfeed can actually be beneficial, as it helps maintain the breastfeeding relationship and can promote healing for the mother.
If a mother notices blood in her milk, it is advisable to monitor the situation. If the bleeding persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as severe pain or signs of infection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
When to Seek Help
While blood in breast milk is often benign, there are instances when it may indicate a more serious issue. If the blood is significant, or if there are other symptoms such as fever or unusual pain, seeking medical advice is crucial. Additionally, if the mother suspects that the blood is due to a more serious condition, such as a breast infection or other health problems, prompt medical attention is warranted.
In summary, while finding blood in breast milk can be distressing, it is often a normal occurrence related to breastfeeding challenges. Mothers are encouraged to continue breastfeeding, monitor their health, and seek help if needed. Understanding these aspects can help alleviate fears and promote a positive breastfeeding experience.

Can I still breastfeed if my nipples are bleeding?

It might be less painful if you use a nipple shield. Talk to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counsellor first, to make sure you’re using the shield correctly. It is usually quite safe for baby to feed on a bleeding nipple.

Can breastfeeding moms get their period?

After having a baby, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. If you are breastfeeding your baby, your periods may not return for months or even years after childbirth. If your baby is being fed using formula, you may find your periods return shortly after childbirth.

Can breastfeeding cause random bleeding?

If you begin menstruating again while you’re breastfeeding, you may experience spotting and irregular periods and wonder what’s going on. It’s completely normal to have inconsistent cycles when you’re breastfeeding a baby, and you can chalk it up to the same hormones that caused amenorrhea.

Is it normal to have bloody discharge while breastfeeding?

Bloody nipple discharge during lactation occurs as a result of several factors such as cracked nipples, mastitis, trauma, or intraductal papilloma [3,4]. However, a rare physiological condition, known as “rusty-pipe syndrome”, can cause painless bloody nipple discharge in pregnant and post-partum women [2,3,5].

When should I be worried about postpartum bleeding?

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have severe vaginal bleeding. You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint. You have a fever.

Should I keep pumping if blood is coming out?

Although it may seem counterintuitive, you shouldn’t stop breastfeeding or breast pumping just because there are traces of blood present. Even if you have a blood infection or illness, continue to pump to avoid blocked ducts or painful engorgement while you and your doctor determine the cause and treatment.

What happens if blood comes while breastfeeding?

While blood in breast milk doesn’t automatically mean something bad — it could be a result of damaged nipples, broken capillaries or mastitis — it could also be a sign of a serious health condition.

Why am I bleeding bright red blood and I breastfeed?

You may notice the bleeding is redder and heavier when you breastfeed. This happens because breastfeeding makes your womb contract.

Is blood in breast milk ok for babies?

In most cases, it’s safe or even helpful to continue breastfeeding if you see blood in your breast milk. This can sometimes be a sign of health problems for the mother, but it’s not dangerous for babies. Some mothers find that blood in the breast milk causes babies to spit up more, but this is rarely cause for concern.

How to tell if you’re getting mastitis?

Symptoms may include:

• Breast tenderness or warmth.
• Breast swelling.
• Thickening of breast tissue, or a breast lump.
• Pain or a burning feeling all the time or while breastfeeding.
• Skin redness, often in a wedge-shaped pattern.
• Feeling ill.
• Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) or greater.