## What does the color tell you? __Milky white__ This is the most common. Galactorrhea is a condition where a woman has milk or milk discharge from the nipples, even if she is no longer breastfeeding. This is the result of an overproduction of the pituitary hormone prolactin. Milk discharge can also be associated with a recent cessation of breastfeeding or hormonal changes before menopause. Hormone therapy (birth control pills) and sedatives can also similarly affect the breasts. Copious milk discharge from both nipples can be caused by a benign tumor of the pituitary gland (prolactinoma). __Blood red__ One of the causes ===is a benign tumor (papilloma) that can irritate the tissues inside the milk duct. In rare cases, red spotting is associated with breast cancer, especially in older women. __Transparent__ Discharge from both breasts, as a rule, does not pose a threat to health, but if you find them in only one breast, you should consult an oncologist. __Green__ This color can be a symptom of a cyst, blocked milk ducts, or an infection in the chest. It is also one of the signs of fibrocystic disease. __Yellow__ Mastitis is an infection of the breast that causes a pus-like yellow-green, accompanied by fever and chest pain. If the discharge develops an unpleasant odor, this may indicate an abscess. ## Does it show up only in women? Men can also experience nipple discharge. Some of the common causes include testosterone deficiency, gynecomastia—a condition that leads to breast enlargement and breast tenderness, pituitary swelling, and breast cancer. ## What is the examination like? First, the specialist will carry out a clinical examination of the breast. Then, they will order a mammogram and an ultrasound of the mammary glands to find the source of the discharge, as well as take a smear for cytology. The doctor may also do a ductogram (X-ray method with the introduction of a contrast agent into the ducts of the breast). The data obtained will tell you if a biopsy is needed. In non-pregnant women who have heavy milk flow from both breasts, a blood test is taken to measure the level of the hormone prolactin.