Montgomery tubercles are small sebaceous (oil) glands situated on the areolas, the pigmented areas around the nipples.
Named after 19th-century Irish obstetrician William Fetherstone Montgomery, these glands commonly appear as tiny, fleshy bumps.
These tubercles grease the nipple area, especially during breastfeeding, and often enlarge due to hormonal changes, such as during gestation. While this is normal, they can occasionally become clogged or infected, resulting in breast pain and inflammation.
Reasons for Montgomery Tubercles and Nipple Changes
Montgomery tubercles can become more prominent for various reasons, both related and unrelated to pregnancy, typically due to hormone fluctuations.
You might notice your Montgomery tubercles enlarging due to the following:
- Certain phases of the menstrual cycle
- Puberty
- Menopause
- Side effects of medications
- Cold weather
- Tight clothing
- During Pregnancy
Gestation induces numerous changes in the breasts. Nipples and breasts generally enlarge, while areolas widen and darken, preparing for nursing.
Montgomery tubercles also become more noticeable, and are likely to prevent nipple dryness during breastfeeding. Some researchers suggest they may aid in promoting lactation and keeping bacteria away from mammary glands.
Post-breastfeeding, they typically return to their usual size.
Avoid squeezing Montgomery tubercles, even if they are inflamed or enlarged. Picking at them can introduce bacteria, leading to infection. It's best to leave them alone except during normal washing in the bath or shower.
Do Montgomery Tubercles Get Clogged or Infected?
Montgomery tubercles can become clogged or infected if bacteria enter the glands. Signs of infection include:
- Breast pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warm skin
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Clear or brownish discharge
Infected tubercles are commonly treated with antibiotics, and in rare cases, they may need to be surgically drained.
Typically, enlarged Montgomery tubercles will lessen in size after breastfeeding or with time if caused by hormonal changes.
To alleviate pain, apply a warm, wet compress to the area. During breastfeeding, use lanolin ointment on nipples and areolas to prevent dryness. Wearing loose-fitting bras and rinsing breasts with water instead of soap can also help.
Changes in Your Breast Nipple: Consult a Healthcare Provider
Consult a healthcare provider if encountering infection manifestations, such as:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Discharge
- Fatigue
- Pus
- Chills
- Fever
Rarely, changes in the breasts may signal breast cancer. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice:
- Dimpled skin
- A lump or mass in one or both breasts
- Persistent breast or nipple pain
- Discolored, dry, or flaky skin
- Nipple discharge
- Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits
- A retracted nipple
Montgomery tubercles are small glands around the areolas that help keep nipples moisturized. They often enlarge during pregnancy, nursing, puberty, menopause, and menstrual periods, which is generally normal.
However, if they become infected or clogged, treatment with antibiotics might be necessary. Contact a healthcare provider if you observe infection symptoms.
Montgomery tubercles may appear intermittently but generally fade after you finish breastfeeding. If the bumps are unusually large or bothersome, surgical removal is an option, though not commonly recommended.
This simple outpatient procedure takes about 30 minutes but can cause scarring, so discuss your concerns with your doctor.
