Thursday, May 31, 2012
Just Diagnosed with Cancer? Chat with Experts

Monday, August 17, 2009 youngteacher asks

Q: Bloody discharge or just a cut/chaff?

Hello, I'm 26 and last night after returning from a cottage and swimming in a lake for a few days I noticed what appeared to be a bloody discharge coming from my left nipple, after taking a shower.  It stopped after a while and has not started again, even when I try to see if any more will come out.  Could this simply be the result of wearing a bathing suit for prolonged periods of time and that irritating or cutting the nipple to cause it to bleed?  Does the fact that it only happened once mean anything, or is that still cause for concern?  I've read other postings and wasn't sure if when people talk about nipple discharge, if that is something that continues to happen or if it happening even once means anything.

Thanks!

Answer This
Answers (1)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
8/17/09 10:19pm

Hi - I'd say if it doesn't happen again, it was probably some minor skin irritation. Your nipples are very sensitive; you might have injured it a tiny bit without knowing it. If it happens again, then best to gt it examined, see what's up. But in the meantime - LEAVE IT ALONE! No poking, squeezing, prodding, pressing, or anything else to see if you can get it to bleed... because you probably will. But it'll be the result of you reinjuring it, not a discharge. Good luck - PJH

Reply
Answer This

Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (6580) >
By youngteacher— Last Modified: 12/25/10, First Published: 08/17/09