Named after 19th-century Irish obstetrician William Fetherstone Montgomery, these glands typically look like tiny, fleshy bumps.
Montgomery tubercles keep the skin around the nipples lubricated, especially whenbreastfeeding.
They often get bigger in response to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy.
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They can get clogged or infected, however, which can cause breast pain and swelling.
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Montgomery Tubercles and Nipple Changes: What Causes Them?
Montgomery tubercles can become enlarged and appear more prominent for various reasons both related and unrelated topregnancy.
This is usually nothing to worry about.
Most often, this occurs because of shifting hormone levels.
In Pregnancy
Breasts go through many changes during pregnancy.
Nipples and breasts themselves tend to get bigger, while areolas become wider and darker.
These changes help to prepare your breasts for nursing and typically persist during the postpartum period.
Montgomery tubercles often become noticeably enlarged during pregnancy.
They may shrink and return to their regular appearance after you stop nursing your baby.
However, its important not to pick at the bumps.
This could introducebacteria, which could lead to infection.
Its best to stay hands off except for washing them when you bathe or shower.
Do Montgomery Tubercles Get Clogged or Infected?
Montgomery tubercles can become clogged, infected, and/or blocked if bacteria enters the affected glands.
Rarely, they may need to be surgically lanced and drained.
To avoid pain during breastfeeding, applylanolinointment to the nipples and areolas.
Summary
Montgomery tubercles are tinysebaceous glandsaround the areolas that help to keep the nipples moisturized.
These small lumps often get bigger during pregnancy, nursing, puberty, menopause, and menstrual periods.
This is typically healthy and normal.
Sometimes, Montgomery tubercles get infected or clogged.
This usually requires treatment with antibiotics.
Reach out to a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of infection.
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