It is normal for babies ( boys and girls )  to have swollen , enlarged or lumps under their nipples.  These are known as breast buds. They are superficial and usually disappear with time.  Breast buds should be the same color and temperature as the rest of the body. If they are red and hot to touch, they may be an indication of a medical problem and the help of a doctor should be sought.

What causes breast buds ?

 
Breast buds are caused by exposure to maternal hormones  coming across the placenta just before the baby is delivered.  The same hormones that can cause enlargement of the mother’s breast and milk glands to be stimulated can cause the same to the baby’s breast.

These enlarged breasts are usually noticeable at birth and may even continue to grow after a while. Some real milk may even be expressed when you pinch them. However over the weeks or even months, they will begin to shrink and flatten  because there is no more exposure to the hormones. A small amount of tissue may remain occasionally but this doesn’t grow or cause any discomfort.

Parents usually worry and may touch and pinch the breast so much that it is irritated. Do not bother them and let nature take it course shrinking them.

When to worry

 
When the breast buds become  is red, hot to touch, tender or have a discharge and the baby has a fever, it may be a sign of an infection. Call your doctor right away to have it checked.
 
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