Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful process, but it can sometimes come with concerns, one of which is the presence of blood or blood clots in breast milk. If you are a breastfeeding mother and notice blood in your milk, it can be alarming. To know if it is safe to feed your child breast milk with blood, you must know the causes, implications and know what to do next.
What is blood in breast milk?
Blood in breast milk can present itself in different forms. You may notice pink or red streaks in the milk, or it may have a reddish tint. In some cases, blood clots can form in the milk, which can be concerning for mothers. Understanding the reasons for this occurrence is essential for ensuring the health of both mother and baby.
Why is there blood in your breast milk?
Blood clots in breast milk, often called “strawberry milk,” can happen for several reasons:
- Nipple Damage: Cracked or hurt nipples are a common reason for blood while breastfeeding. This can happen if the baby doesn’t latch on properly or if the mother is in an uncomfortable position while breastfeeding.
- Mastitis: This is an infection in the breast tissue that can cause swelling and pain, which may lead to blood in the milk. Symptoms of mastitis can include pain, swelling, and feeling like you have the flu.
- Rusty Pipe Syndrome: This condition often occurs in the first few days of breastfeeding. It happens when extra blood flows to the breasts, causing tiny blood vessels to leak into the milk ducts.
- Breast Tissue Papilloma: This is a harmless growth in the breast that can cause bleeding in the ducts while breastfeeding or pumping.
- Clogged Milk Ducts: When milk ducts get blocked, it can cause swelling and sometimes lead to blood in the milk.
- Breast Cancer: Although it’s rare, blood in breast milk can sometimes be a sign of breast cancer, especially if there are other symptoms like lumps or thickening of the breast tissue.
Is it normal to have blood in breast milk?
Yes, and you should not dump breast milk with blood. In most cases, small amounts of blood are not a big concern. Issues like rusty pipe syndrome and nipple damage are common for new mothers and usually get better on their own within a few days.
However, it’s important to keep an eye on the situation. If the bleeding continues or gets worse, or if you have other symptoms like a fever or severe pain, it’s best to see a healthcare professional.
Also, if you see a lot of blood or if your baby seems upset after drinking the milk (like excessive spitting up), it’s a beneficial idea to talk to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for specific advice.
What to do if you find blood in your milk?
If you discover blood in your breast milk, here are some steps you can take:
- Observe and Document: Take note of how much blood you see and any other symptoms you might have. Documenting this information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
- Examine Your Nipples: Look for cracks, blisters, or any signs of injury on your nipples. If you see any damage, consider adjusting your breastfeeding technique to alleviate pressure on your nipples.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you notice persistent blood in your breast milk or if you experience other symptoms, consult a healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
- Take Care of Your Breasts: Ensure proper hygiene and care for your breasts. Use lanolin cream or other soothing ointments on cracked nipples to promote healing.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can support your body during this time.
When to seek help?
If you notice blood clots in your breast milk, consider these guidelines:
- Monitor Symptoms: If you see only minor bleeding without other symptoms, you can generally feed your baby with breast milk with blood in it, but you need to monitor for changes.
- Consult a Lactation Consultant: They can offer support and check if you need to adjust your latch or positioning.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you experience severe pain, fever, or ongoing bleeding for more than a few days, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
- Watch for Other Symptoms: Look out for signs of mastitis, like redness or warmth in the breast, or any lumps that could indicate more serious issues.
Blood clots in breast milk can be safe for your child, but be cautious.
Finding blood or blood clots in breast milk can be worrying, but there are common reasons for it that are usually not serious. Issues like cracked nipples, mastitis, and rusty pipe syndrome often heal on their own and are not dangerous for your baby. Monitoring the situation is crucial. If the bleeding continues or gets worse, or if you have other symptoms, it’s best to talk to a healthcare provider. By knowing the causes and taking care of yourself, you can continue breastfeeding with confidence.