A mother reports discharge from the nipple while breastfeeding. What is the appropriate nursing response?

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Multiple Choice

A mother reports discharge from the nipple while breastfeeding. What is the appropriate nursing response?

Nipple discharge during breastfeeding is often milk being released through the let-down reflex, and a small amount of discharge is a normal finding. The best nursing response is to reassure the mother and focus on nipple care: gently wash the nipple with warm water, let it air-dry, and continue breastfeeding so the breasts are regularly emptied. Avoid harsh soaps on the nipple area and address any cracks or skin irritation promptly. Antibiotics, stopping breastfeeding, or scheduling a mammogram aren’t indicated unless there are additional signs—such as redness, fever, swelling, persistent unusual discharge, or discharge when not feeding—that would suggest a problem requiring further evaluation.

Nipple discharge during breastfeeding is often milk being released through the let-down reflex, and a small amount of discharge is a normal finding. The best nursing response is to reassure the mother and focus on nipple care: gently wash the nipple with warm water, let it air-dry, and continue breastfeeding so the breasts are regularly emptied. Avoid harsh soaps on the nipple area and address any cracks or skin irritation promptly. Antibiotics, stopping breastfeeding, or scheduling a mammogram aren’t indicated unless there are additional signs—such as redness, fever, swelling, persistent unusual discharge, or discharge when not feeding—that would suggest a problem requiring further evaluation.

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