Babies are occasionally born with inflamed breasts.
Inflamed infant breasts may be alarming to new parents, but it is actually a common condition. The presence of this and related symptoms usually fade within a few weeks of birth.
Characteristics
Directly following birth, an infant may exhibit inflammation of one or both breasts. This condition affects both male and female infants.
Related Symptoms
Symptoms related to infant breast inflammation include "witch's milk," a milky discharge from the nipples, and "pseudomenstruation," a milky vaginal discharge that may be present in newborn females. Additionally, newborn females may exhibit inflammation of the labia.
Causes
Infant breast inflammation is caused by exposure to the mother's hormones while in the womb, particularly estrogen. Estrogen is a compound that is capable of penetrating the placental wall.
Treatment
No treatment is necessary for infant breast inflammation. Breast inflammation and related symptoms should subside within a few weeks after birth. Do not squeeze inflamed breasts, as this may lead to infection.
Conclusion
Infant breast inflammation is a common condition and is generally not a cause for concern. If the condition persists for more than two weeks, or an infection is suspected, seek medical attention.
Tags: breast inflammation, breast inflammation, common condition, exhibit inflammation, infant breast inflammation