Galactorrhea is a condition in which the breasts produce and secrete milk without the presence of pregnancy. This condition can happen not only in women but also in men and children. The main sign of galactorrhea is when it occurs without being provoked by breastfeeding. Galactorrhea occurs when one or both breasts unexpectedly begin to produce milk or a milk-like discharge. This nipple discharge may flow from the breast on its own or when the breast is touched. The condition occurs most often in women, but it can also develop in men and children. Galactorrhea occurs most often in women aged 20 to 35 and in women who have previously given birth. Doctors don’t always find out what causes galactorrhea. The most common cause is a pituitary tumor, usually benign. Other causes include: Pregnancy; Taking certain medications, including birth control, blood pressure medications, or antidepressants; Excessive stimulation of the breasts (through sexual activity or frequent self-examinations); Disorders of the thyroid gland; Chronic kidney disease A milky discharge from the nipples when breastfeeding is not available is the main symptom of galactorrhea. Other signs of the condition may include: Amenorrhea (irregular or absent menstruation); Vaginal dryness; Headache; Decreased sexual desire; Excessive hair growth; Acne; Erectile dysfunction. Treatment for galactorrhea varies depending on the cause of the condition. In some people, it goes away on its own without any treatment. For more successful management of the condition, it is necessary to avoid actions or conditions that cause the condition. These can be stopping the use or changing some medications or taking medications that control prolactin production. In cases where the cause of the condition is a tumor of the pituitary gland, and if necessary, medications are used to reduce the size of the tumor or those that stop the production of prolactin. In rare cases, doctors use surgery or radiation therapy to remove the formation. Some medications used to treat galactorrhea can lead to complications such as infertility and vision problems. In some cases, a pituitary tumor causes the body’s estrogen levels to decrease. Women with low estrogen levels are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis. Source: my.clevelandclinic.org