Nipple blebs, small, fluid-filled blisters that can develop on the nipple during breastfeeding, can be very uncomfortable. While they are often harmless and painless, understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatment options when they are painful or hinder milk flow, can help you manage them effectively and continue your breastfeeding journey. 

What are nipple blebs?

Nipple blebs typically appear as small, clear, or whitish blisters on the nipple or areola. Here are some common causes of nipple blebs:

• Blocked Milk Duct Openings: When milk ducts become clogged, pressure can build up and lead to the formation of a bleb. A blocked duct can happen anywhere in the duct. Some of them are deep in the breast and others appear as blebs in the duct opening.
• Trauma: Nipple trauma, such as from vigorous pumping or an ill-fitting breast pump, can contribute to bleb development. If the baby is not latching well that can also contribute to nipple trauma and lead to a bleb.
• Milk composition: In some cases, very fatty milk can cause blebs by getting stuck in the duct opening.

Symptoms of Nipple Blebs

• Pain or tenderness at the site of the bleb
• Slow milk flow from the nipple with the bleb
• Lumps deep in the breast that are caused by ineffective emptying of the affected breast
• Redness or swelling around the bleb

Treatment and Care

If you notice a nipple bleb, it’s important to take steps to care for it and prevent complications. Here are some effective treatment options:

• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help soften the milk duct opening and promote drainage. You can use a warm towel or a cloth soaked in warm water. After you apply the warm towel compress, gently rub the nipple with the towel to see if that opens the bleb.  
• Correct Latch: Ensuring a proper latch can help reduce the risk of nipple trauma and prevent blebs. If you’re unsure about your baby’s latch, consult a lactation consultant.
• Saline Soaks: Soaking the nipple in a saline solution before breastfeeding or pumping can help open the bleb and reduce inflammation. To make a saline solution, dissolve a teaspoon of salt in 1 ounce of warm water. Soak the nipple in the solution for 20 minutes using a shot glass. After soaking the nipple wash it with water.  
• Oil soak: After breastfeeding soak a cotton ball in coconut or olive oil, put it on a nursing pad, and then apply it to your nipple until it’s time for another saline soak and breastfeeding or pumping.
• Sunflower or Soy lecithin: if the blebs keep reoccurring this might indicate your milk is high in fat content. Taking a lecithin supplement can help prevent your milk from clogging.
• Never use a needle or sharp object or your fingernail to open a bleb this can cause infection both of the bleb itself and the entire breast. This procedure may be done only by a healthcare professional in a sterile medical setting and is seldom necessary.  

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most nipple blebs resolve on their own with proper care, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain or discomfort
• High fever
• Redness or swelling that spreads beyond the nipple
• Fluid leaking from the nipple that is thick, yellow, or green
• Signs of infection, such as chills or body aches

A healthcare provider can assess your condition and determine if you need further treatment, such as antibiotics for an infection.

Preventing Nipple Blebs

To reduce your risk of developing nipple blebs, consider the following tips:

• Ensure a proper latch: A good latch can help prevent nipple trauma and reduce the risk of blocked milk ducts.
• Empty your breasts regularly: Nursing or pumping frequently can help prevent milk from backing up and causing blockages.
• Take care of your nipples: After breastfeeding or pumping, gently dry your nipples to prevent irritation. Use a nipple cream to prevent dryness.

For More Information: Talk to your pediatrician or lactation consultant for personalized advice on treating nipple blebs. This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your baby’s feeding.