Why Are There White Substances in the Lactiferous Sinuses?
There is milky white substance inside the nipple crease. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women in the middle to late stages of pregnancy, and it is considered nipple secretions. These secretions are mainly caused by metabolism. As the pregnancy progresses, the levels of progesterone in the pregnant woman's body gradually increase, preparing for breastfeeding after childbirth. During this period, it is essential to maintain cleanliness of the breasts and nipples to prevent bacterial growth and inflammation.
The milky white substance in the nipple crease is nipple secretions primarily caused by metabolism. Waste accumulates in the nipple or milk ducts, causing blockage. These secretions are usually creamy and can be white, yellow, or black. If the toxins are not expelled in time, they can accumulate and form bumps on the nipple area, and even lead to nipple inversion. Additionally, after weaning, if the breast milk is not completely expelled, it can deteriorate over time, forming pus, blood, or dark fluid. If not expelled promptly, this can lead to pathological changes in the entire mammary gland tissue, potentially even cancer.
Firstly, underwear should be kept clean. Breastfeeding women should ensure that their underwear is clean and hygienic, changing and washing it daily. Before washing, it is advisable to disinfect the underwear with hot water. Additionally, breastfeeding mothers are recommended to wear nursing bras, which are more convenient for breastfeeding and designed to better accommodate the breasts during lactation.
Secondly, it is essential to rinse the nipple and areola with clean water before breastfeeding. The nipple can be contaminated with bacteria and viruses, so rinsing them with water before breastfeeding is recommended. After rinsing, it is best not to use a towel to dry them but to allow them to air dry naturally.
Lastly, it is crucial to express any residual milk from the previous feeding before breastfeeding again. Residual milk left in the mammary ducts for too long can become rancid, potentially causing gastrointestinal issues for the baby. Therefore, before breastfeeding, it is essential to express any residual milk from the previous feeding. Additionally, after breastfeeding, it is advisable to empty the mammary ducts of any remaining milk to prevent mastitis.