Patient's question:
Using a breast pump, my nipple is bleeding. What's going on? Is there any consequence?Doctor's answer:
Hello, your condition is due to a blockage in the areola area of the breast, which makes it difficult for milk to be expressed. Using a breast pump can only extract the nipple part, giving a sensation like being pulled. If there is not much milk, it becomes even harder to extract, which may lead to the nipple being sucked bloody. You can apply erythromycin ointment to the nipple and clean it with water before the baby feeds to prevent bacterial infection and acute mastitis. It is best to let the baby suck, as this allows them to cover both the nipple and areola, which can alleviate the situation. However, to address the root cause, massage techniques should be used to expel the gelatinous granules blocking the milk ducts. Once the milk ducts are cleared, even using a breast pump will become much easier, and the condition will be completely resolved.