What are white spots on nipples?

Answer 1

They may be Montgomery tubercles or glands of Montgomery these are sebaceous or oil producing glands located on the areola of the nipple they are ajoined to the hair shaft it is thought that they secrete a lipoid, oil like substance which is thought to have ani-bacterial qualites. They may change due to hormonal changes , puberty or pregnancy. Sometimes ( i think !!) they may secrete a tiny amount of milk during pregnancy. The oil or lipoid substance travels up the hair follicle and is distributed on the skin sometimes due to dead skin cells or blockage there may be a build up that will appear more pronounced which should be left to clear itself whilst you keep the area clean. This substance is also there to keep the areola area moist and alters the pH of the skin and stops bacterial build up, it is to stop cracking of the skin in that delicate area particularly during pregnancy. As i said hormonal changes can affect them. THey are also a sign of early pregnancy so whilst it is possible to have them without being pregnant (and quite normal too) it may be a sign of pregnancy so maybe you should see a doctor. These glands become much more pronounced during pregnancy as the body prepares for breast feeding. If they are very pronounced or painful or you are worried you should see a doctor.