Have you noticed small bumps on your areolas and are wondering what they are? Are you searching for pictures of "Montgomery tubercles" on Google to compare? Are you worried they might be pimples or a skin condition? Breathe. These small bumps are perfectly normal. They're called Montgomery tubercles (or Montgomery glands), and everyone has them. Yes, you too. Even if you'd never noticed them before.
These sebaceous glands are present on the areola from puberty onwards, but they become more visible in certain situations: pregnancy, ovulation, cold weather, and arousal. They play a fundamental role during breastfeeding, but are not exclusively linked to motherhood. This article explains everything about these little bumps that worry or intrigue so many women.
Key points to remember from the outset
Montgomery Tubercles: Simple Definition
Montgomery tubercles (also called Montgomery glands or areolar glands) are small sebaceous glands located on the areola, the pigmented area surrounding the nipple. They resemble small, round bumps, like tiny pimples or slightly raised moles.
Quick Anatomy (Jargon-Free Version)
Imagine your areola as a small, specialized area of skin. Within this area, there are between 4 and 28 tiny openings (the tubercles) which correspond to glands located just beneath the skin. These glands produce an oily substance that is released through these small openings.
In scientific terms, these are modified sebaceous glands. Unlike the classic sebaceous glands of your skin which are linked to hairs, these are coupled to tiny mammary ducts and have a dual function: oil secretion + small milk production.
A Little Bit of History
These structures were first described in 1719 by the Italian anatomist Jean-Baptiste Morgagni (hence their other name: Morgagni's tubercles). But it was the Irish obstetrician William Fetherstone Montgomery who, in 1837, detailed their structure and changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding. That's why they are most commonly called "Montgomery's tubercles" today.
What is its practical purpose?
Montgomery tubercles have three main roles, which become particularly important during breastfeeding (but also exist outside of any pregnancy).
1. Nipple Lubrication
Montgomery glands secrete an oily fluid (sebum) that moisturizes and protects the thin, sensitive skin of the areola and nipple. This natural lubrication prevents dryness, chapping, and cracking. This is especially important during breastfeeding, but the process works continuously, even if you are not breastfeeding.
2. Antibacterial Protection
The secreted fluid contains natural antibacterial agents. It alters the pH of the areola's skin, creating an environment hostile to pathogenic bacteria. As a result, your nipple is protected against infection, reducing the risk of mastitis (breast infection) during breastfeeding.
⚠️ So no, no soap on the nipples During breastfeeding (and even when not), never wash your nipples with soap, disinfectant, or wipes. You would remove this natural protection. A simple rinse with clean water in the shower is perfectly sufficient.
3. Olfactory Signal for the Newborn
This is the most fascinating role, and it has been scientifically proven. The secretions of Montgomery tubercles contain odorous volatile compounds (including triglycerides and fatty acids) that act as pheromones for newborns.
A 2009 study published in PLOS One Three-day-old babies were exposed to various odors, including sebum, breast milk, cow's milk, and secretions from Montgomery glands. Ultimately, the babies reacted much more strongly to the odor of Montgomery glands, exhibiting increased respiratory activity, mouth movements, and an orientation towards the source of the odor.
Morality These small glands literally help your baby find the breast and nurse effectively from the first hours of life. Babies whose mothers have more visible tubercles seem to gain weight faster and breastfeeding starts more easily.
Montgomery Tubercles and Pregnancy: The Real Link
This is THE question that keeps popping up on forums: "My bumps are more visible, am I pregnant?" The answer isn't a simple yes or no. There is a link, but it's nuanced.
The tubercles become more visible during pregnancy.
From the first weeks of pregnancy (sometimes as early as 6-7 days after implantation, therefore even before (such as a missed period), Montgomery tubercles can enlarge and become much more prominent. They go from small, discreet dots to clearly visible bumps.
Why ? Pregnancy hormones (estrogen, progesterone, prolactin) stimulate these glands to prepare the body for future breastfeeding. This is an early phenomenon that affects approximately 30 to 50% of pregnant women during the first trimester.
What changes during pregnancy:
- The tubers swell and become more prominent.
- The areola enlarges and darkens (hyperpigmentation)
- The veins in the breasts become more visible
- Around the 8th week, the tubers may begin to secrete their oily substance.
- In the 3rd quarter, they reach their taille maximale
But visible tubercles do not automatically indicate pregnancy
The trap many fall into: noticing their more prominent tubercles and immediately thinking "I'm pregnant". However, these glands react to progesterone, and progesterone is naturally present in the second half of the menstrual cycle, even without pregnancy.
💡 In the end Visible bumps can be an early sign of pregnancy, but they are not a 100% reliable indicator. Many women notice them at the end of their cycle without being pregnant. The only way to be certain is to take a pregnancy test when your period is late.
Montgomery Tubers vs. Pimples: How to Tell the Difference
A common mistake is to confuse Montgomery tubercles with acne, whiteheads, cysts, or other skin abnormalities. Here's how to tell the difference.
⚠️ When it's not normal If you notice a single Montgomery gland that becomes red, hot, swollen, painful, or oozes pus, it may be blocked or infected. In this case, consult a doctor or midwife (especially if you are breastfeeding). A Montgomery gland can indeed become blocked like any sebaceous gland, but this is rare.
Montgomery Tubercles During Breastfeeding
Montgomery tubercles reach their full potential during breastfeeding. Their role becomes crucial for the mother's comfort and the success of breastfeeding.
Their Evolution Throughout Breastfeeding
First days after childbirth The tubers are at their maximum taille and activity. They actively secrete to guide the baby and protect your nipples during the first feedings.
During established breastfeeding They remain clearly visible and continue their lubricating role. Some women may even see milk oozing slightly from these glands (this is normal, they contain mini lactiferous ducts).
After weaning They gradually become less noticeable, but never disappear completely. Some women retain more visible tubercles after several pregnancies.
Taking Care of Your Tubercles While Breastfeeding
The right actions:
- Wash with clean water only in the shower (no soap, no disinfectant)
- Dry gently by patting (no rubbing)
- Leave your breasts exposed to the air for a few minutes each day.
- If there are cracks or dryness: apply pure lanolin after breastfeeding.
- Use breathable cotton nursing pads (avoid plastic)
Protect Your Comfort While Breastfeeding
Montgomery tubercles provide natural protection, but your breasts remain sensitive. Our period panties can also be used after childbirth to gently manage postpartum bleeding.
Myths and Misconceptions About Montgomery Tubers
Let's separate fact from fiction about these little glands that arouse so many fantasies.
❌ Myth 1: "If I have visible tubercles, I am definitely pregnant"
False. As explained above, progesterone (present at the end of the cycle) can make them more visible. Many women have visible tubercles all the time, unrelated to pregnancy. Only a test can confirm.
❌ Myth 2: "It's abnormal to have so much / so little"
False. The number varies enormously: from 4 to 28 per breast according to studies, and this variation is perfectly normal. Some women have barely visible ones, others many. It doesn't affect your ability to breastfeed.
❌ Myth 3: "Men don't have them"
False. Men have exactly the same breast anatomical structures as women (nipples, areolas, Montgomery tubercles). The only difference is that in men, these glands are smaller and less active because they are not stimulated by the hormones of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
❌ Myth 4: "They must be removed for aesthetic reasons"
Useless in 99% of cases. These glands serve a purpose. You can technically have them removed surgically (under local anesthesia, 30 minutes), but this is purely cosmetic and you will lose their natural protection. Most surgeons advise against it.
✅ Truth: "They can become blocked or infected (rarely)"
True. Like all sebaceous glands, they can sometimes become blocked (sebum buildup) or infected. This is rare, but it happens especially during breastfeeding. Warning signs include: localized redness, painful swelling, warmth, and possible pus discharge. In this case, apply warm compresses and consult a doctor.
Montgomery Tuberculosis: A Common Confusion
Sometimes you see Google searches for "Montgomery tuberculosis". This is a lexical confusion: it is indeed the tubers Montgomery (from Latin) tuberculum (small bump), not of the TB (infectious pulmonary disease).
💡 To clarify Montgomery tubercles have absolutely no connection to tuberculosis. They are simply small, normal anatomical bumps. In medicine, the word "tubercle" refers to any small elevation or nodule, whether physiological (normal) or pathological (related to a disease such as tuberculosis).
When Montgomery Tubercles Signal a Problem
In the vast majority of cases, Montgomery tubercles are not a problem. However, some situations warrant a consultation.
Signs that warrant a consultation
- Redness and painful swelling of one or more tubercles (possible infection or obstruction)
- Purulent discharge (yellowish, greenish) with a bad smell
- Associated fever (may indicate early mastitis)
- Persistent bleeding of a tubercle (rare in adolescent girls, usually benign but should be checked)
- Tubers that suddenly change in appearance or that grow asymmetrically
- Bloody discharge from the nipple (may originate from a tuber but requires investigation)
⚠️ Rare special cases
In very rare cases, Montgomery tubercles can be the site of more serious abnormalities (cysts, hyperplasia, or even breast pathologies). A microscopic study from 1982 showed that Montgomery glands can be affected by the same conditions as the rest of breast tissue: cysts, hyperplasia, and in very rare cases, precancerous lesions.
Rest assured: this is exceptional. But if you notice a worrying change (a very swollen, hard, persistent tubercle), talk to your doctor or midwife.
Montgomery Tuberculosis Blockages: What to Do?
If a gland becomes blocked (sebum buildup in the duct), here are some steps that can help:
- Warm compresses Apply a warm, water-soaked compress to the area for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day.
- Gentle massage Gently massage around the tuber to help the accumulated sebum to drain away.
- Do not pierce Resist the temptation to squeeze or pierce (risk of infection)
- If it persists or worsens Consult a doctor. Sometimes a minor intervention is necessary to clear the blockage.
Tubercles in Men and Adolescent Girls
Montgomery tubers are not exclusive to adult or pregnant women.
Among Men
Yes, men have Montgomery tubercles. They are usually much more discreet because the glands remain at rest (no significant hormonal stimulation). But they are there, functional, and can even sometimes become slightly visible in cold weather or during arousal.
Among Teenagers
At puberty, when breast tissue develops under the influence of estrogen, the Montgomery tubercles become visible. Some teenage girls may even experience slight discharge from their tubercles (rare but medically documented). If it is brief and painless, it is usually benign. If it persists, a hormonal assessment can be done to check prolactin levels.
These Little Bumps That Cause a Lot of Talk
Montgomery tubercles are perfectly normal sebaceous glands. You have between 4 and 28 per breast, whether they are visible or not. Their role is to lubricate, protect, and guide the baby to the breast during breastfeeding thanks to their scent. They may become more prominent during pregnancy (as early as 6-7 days after implantation), but also at the end of the menstrual cycle due to progesterone. Their visibility is therefore not proof of pregnancy. Only a test can confirm it.
These glands require no treatment. While breastfeeding, wash them with plain water only. If any of them become red, swollen, or painful, consult a doctor. Otherwise, stop worrying. They are a normal part of your anatomy and serve an important function. Your body knows what it's doing.
Sources & Scientific References
This article is based on validated scientific studies and reliable medical sources to give you accurate information about Montgomery tubercles.
Main scientific studies
- Doucet S, Soussignan R, Sagot P, Schaal B. (2009). The secretion of areolar (Montgomery's) glands from lactating women elicits selective, unconditional responses in neonates. PLoS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007579 – Study demonstrating that newborns react specifically to secretions from Montgomery tubercles
- Smith DM Jr, Peters TG, Donegan WL. (1982). Montgomery's areolar tubercle. A light microscopic study. Archives of Pathology & Laboratory MedicinePMID: 6277270 – Detailed histological analysis showing that 97% of the tubers contain both sebaceous glands and lactiferous ducts
- Schaal B, Doucet S, Sagot P, Hertling E, Soussignan R. (2006). Human breast areolae as scent organs: morphological data and possible involvement in maternal-neonatal coadaptation. Developmental Psychobiology. DOI: 10.1002/dev.20100
- Going JJ, Moffat DF. (2004). Escaping from Flatland: clinical and biological aspects of human mammary duct anatomy in three dimensions. Journal of Pathology. DOI: 10.1002/path.1556
- Kantha SS. (2023). Montgomery glands in the Areolar region - A clinical overview. International Medical JournalVol. 30, No. 3, pp. 128-131 – Recent review on the anatomy and clinical issues concerning Montgomery glands
- Taneri F, Kurukahvecioglu O, Ege B, et al. (2006). Nipple discharge and breast lump related to Montgomery's tubercles in adolescent females. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. PMID: 3171840
Additional references
- National Academy of Medicine (France). Areolar glands. Online medical dictionary.
- La Leche League France. Can Montgomery glands (or tubercles) become blocked and/or infected? Documentation for breastfeeding.
Footnotes : DOI links provide direct access to the original scientific publications. This article will be updated regularly to reflect the latest medical knowledge.
Medical warning This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts or have specific questions about your breast health, consult a gynecologist, midwife, or doctor.
