Newborns have many surprising characteristics. Newborns may have swollen nipples  and may even release some milk from the nipples. This occurs in both baby boys and baby girls . You have to know that this is a normal finding in newborns  and typically resolve after a few months.

What causes swollen nipples in newborns

The same hormones that causes the mother’s breast to swell and cause milk glands to be stimulated  can do the same to the baby’s breast. These swollen nipples may be quite prominent at birth and may even continue to get bigger. When you pinch them, some real milk may be expressed  . This milk is known as witch’s milk.

However over a few weeks or even months, when there  is no more exposure to hormones, the breast tissue begins  to shrink and becomes  quite flat. A small amount of tissue may remain occasionally. However this does not grow or cause any discomfort.

NOTE

Swollen nipples in a  newborn is normal. It is important that you leave it  alone. This condition will resolve on its own within a few months.  Breastfed babies with witch’s milk  may secrete the milk longer than formula fed babies. Do not handle or massage the baby’s nipples other than gently washing them during bathing. Massaging it vigorously can cause bacteria to enter the nipples and lead to breast infection.