Health

'My Body Is Starting to Freak Me Out!'

Dr. P. Sándor Gardos
Staff Sexologist, MyPleasure.com

Q: There is something strange going on with my body and it is really starting to freak me out. A couple of weeks ago, I started secreting a small amount of fluid (milk?) from my breasts. I just started going through menopause, so I don't think I could be pregnant. What could this be?

A: There are one of three possibilities. I will list them in order of likelihood:

1. You are pregnant. I know you said that you don't think this is the case, but pregnancy is by far the most likely cause of lactation. Just because you have started missing periods does not mean you are fully menopausal and can't get pregnant. A home pregnancy test would be a good start, though they are not infallible. I would strongly recommend seeing a gynecologist and getting a blood test.

2. You have been engaging in a lot of breast or nipple stimulation. Even non-pregnant women can induce lactation with enough stimulation of their breasts. This is fairly common among women and couples who enjoy a lot of breast play in their sex lives. This is not harmful in any way, so if you think this may be the cause, you can breathe a huge sigh of relief.

3. You have one of a handful of rare conditions that induce lactation. There are only a couple of disorders that can cause this, and all are extremely rare, so I wouldn't panic. But, just as an example, lactation can be a symptom of certain types of tumors. In all likelihood, however, your condition is nothing serious. Just to be sure, I would suggest that you make an appointment with your gynecologist.

If you confirm that you are not pregnant and that you don't have an illness that could be causing lactation, it is almost certainly due to nipple and/or breast stimulation. If the secretions are annoying you, lighten up a bit on your breast play and you should be fine. Otherwise, maybe you and your partner(s) can find a way to enjoy it!

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