3. Sudden nipple discharge
When a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding, nipple discharge is normal and expected. However, if a woman experiences sudden discharge when she is not pregnant or breastfeeding, it could be a cause for concern. There are many conditions that can cause nipple discharge, and not all are related to cancer. For example, fibrocystic changes can result in discharge, as can a papilloma, which is a benign (noncancerous) tumor.
Abscesses, clogged milk ducts, endocrine disorders, and birth control are other factors that can lead to nipple discharge. Cancer is a cause for concern if the discharge appears suddenly, only affects one breast, and the fluid that is being secreted contains blood. If only one of your breasts is affected, there is a lump in your breast, the discharge contains blood is spontaneous and persistent, and a lump is present, it could be an indication of breast cancer.
