Galactocele

A galactocele is a milk-filled sac in the breasts that often occurs during or shortly after

lactation

. They present as a firm mass, often subareolar, and are caused by the obstruction of a lactiferous duct. These lesions are due to more routine and benign causes in a majority of women. A galactocele usually presents as a painless lump in the breast. These lumps form over a few weeks to months. The lesions can be uni- or bilateral and may appear as single or multiple nodules.
Warm showers can help stop the pain associated with galactocele
Symptoms

Breast mass

  • Fluctuance

  • Restrict within limits

  • One breast

  • Tender

  • Solitary

or Breast swelling

  • Movable, compressible and feels like there is a liquid inside

  • One breast, In both breasts

common

Unsuccessful breastfeeding

  • In the first 6 weeks after giving birth, In the first 3 months after giving birth

  • Sudden stop after a period of successful breastfeeding

common

Breast sore to the touch

  • One breast

or Breast pain

  • One breast

Release of fluid from the nipple

  • White nipple discharge

Hard breast

Risk factors

Breastfeeding

Treatment
Once lactation has ended, a galactocele should go away on its own. A galactocele is not serious nor dangerous, but it may be uncomfortable.
Recommended specialist

If you have Galactocele, then a visit to a breast surgeon is recommended.

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