Breast Discharge Treatments

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. In some mild cases, no medical treatment is necessary, and the condition will go away on its own. In these cases, breast binders that prevent stimulation of the nipples may be effective. If medications are identified as the potential cause, safe alternatives should be sought.

If an underlying cause for galactorrhea, such as a pituitary tumor, is found, this condition may be treated.

Pituitary tumor treatment—Tumors of the pituitary gland that cause galactorrhea are usually benign. Small tumors may be treated with a medication, such as bromocriptine. Larger tumors may be treated with the following:

• Surgery—surgical removal of the tumor and nearby tissues, considered when medications fail
• Radiation Therapy (or radiotherapy)—the use of radiation to shrink tumors. considered when medications and surgery fail

Despite treatment, pituitary gland tumors often recur.