I have a white spot or blister on my nipple. Is it dangerous and how do I treat it?

A milk bleb, also called a blocked nipple pore or nipple bleb, is a small, painful white or yellow spot on the nipple caused by skin overgrowing a milk duct opening, trapping milk behind it. It is generally not dangerous but can be a recurring source of pain and occasionally a precursor to a blocked duct. Breastfeeding can continue as normal and will not harm the baby.

A warm compress before feeding can soften the area, and gentle exfoliation with a warm, damp washcloth after a warm compress can help clear superficial skin overgrowth. Needle-lancing or aggressive scraping at home should be avoided, as this raises infection risk.

If the bleb persists beyond 1-2 weeks despite home care, is associated with a recurring blocked duct, or shows signs of infection such as increasing redness, pus, or fever, IBCLC or medical care should be sought.