Are these bumps a sign of infection or clogged pores?

No. Montgomery glands are natural, oil-producing structures — not acne, cysts, or clogged pores.

Should I clean or pop them?

No. These glands are self-cleaning. Squeezing or scrubbing can lead to irritation or infection.

Can I still breastfeed if they’re prominent or leaking?

Yes. These glands are meant to support breastfeeding. They may even help your baby find the nipple more easily.

White Bumps on Areola: What Montgomery Glands Mean in Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can feel like a full-body transformation, and your breasts are often the first to show it. They may swell, darken, leak, itch, or even develop unexpected textures. Among these changes, one that catches many by surprise is the sudden appearance of tiny white bumps on the areola. These are Montgomery glands, and they’re not a sign of infection, clogged pores, or poor hygiene.

They’re a natural part of your breast anatomy, designed to support both you and your baby. If you’ve noticed them for the first time during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, you’re not alone. Knowing what they do and what they don’t can ease unnecessary worry and help you care for your changing body with more confidence.

What Are Montgomery Glands?

Montgomery glands are small sebaceous (oil) glands located around the areola, the darker skin surrounding your nipple. Named after Irish obstetrician Dr. William Fetherstone Montgomery, these glands serve an important biological purpose during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and beyond.

These glands appear as small bumps, usually flesh-toned or white, and are more noticeable during pregnancy.
They produce a natural, oily secretion that moisturises and protects the nipple and areola.
They may look similar to goosebumps, pimples, or whiteheads, but they’re not caused by blocked pores or skin infection.

You might have a few or dozens, and the number may increase during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. The secretions from these glands help prevent nipple cracking and may even play a role in guiding your baby to the breast by releasing subtle scent cues.

Why Montgomery Glands Matter in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Far from being just a cosmetic feature, Montgomery glands are an evolutionary adaptation to support breastfeeding and skin health. They’re most active during pregnancy and lactation for several reasons:

Protect the nipple: The oily fluid acts as a natural emollient, keeping the skin around the nipple soft and less prone to cracking.
Prevent infections: The secretions have mild antimicrobial properties, protecting the breast from bacterial or fungal infections, especially important for open ducts during feeding.
Guide your baby: Some researchers suggest the glands emit a scent that helps newborns locate the nipple for feeding.
Reduce the need for external creams: When functioning normally, Montgomery glands may reduce or eliminate the need for nipple balms.

The glands typically enlarge as early as the first trimester and remain visible throughout breastfeeding. For many, they slowly fade or shrink once hormonal levels return to baseline.

Why You Might Notice More Bumps Now

There’s a reason you might not have paid much attention to these glands before pregnancy. They tend to be more subtle when estrogen and progesterone levels are low. During pregnancy and postpartum, these hormones surge, triggering several changes:

Increased sebaceous activity: Your skin produces more oil overall, including from Montgomery glands.
Darkening areolas: The contrast makes bumps appear more prominent.
Breast tissue expansion: As breasts enlarge, glands become more raised or visible.
Oxytocin and prolactin changes: Hormones responsible for milk production also affect glandular activity.

In some cases, the glands may even produce visible fluid or form a crust. This is still usually normal unless accompanied by pain, swelling, or discharge that smells foul.

Are Montgomery Glands Ever a Problem?

While Montgomery glands are usually harmless, it’s important to differentiate them from signs of infection or other breast concerns. Watch for the following:

Pain or swelling in a specific bump: May indicate a blocked or infected gland (known as periareolar abscess).
Redness, warmth, or pus: Could signal mastitis or localised infection.
Rapid growth or bleeding: Unusual features like ulceration or bleeding should be checked by a doctor.
Lump in the breast tissue underneath: Montgomery glands are superficial; deeper lumps should be evaluated for other causes.

In most cases, what appears to be a blocked gland resolves on its own. Gently cleaning with warm water and avoiding aggressive squeezing or scrubbing is key. If infection is suspected, your doctor may recommend a warm compress or, in rare cases, antibiotics.

How to Care for Montgomery Glands During Pregnancy

Montgomery glands are self-maintaining, meaning you usually don’t need to do much. In fact, over-washing or applying harsh products can do more harm than good.
Here’s how to support them:

Avoid soap on the areola: Use plain warm water to clean the area. Soaps can strip away natural oils.
Don’t pop or squeeze: These are not pimples. Squeezing can cause irritation or infection.
Wear breathable fabrics: Choose cotton bras that reduce friction and allow air circulation.
Let nipples air-dry: After nursing or bathing, air exposure helps glands function naturally.
Stay hydrated: Skin and gland health depend on your overall hydration levels.

If you're breastfeeding, ensure your latch is correct to avoid nipple trauma, which can irritate the glands. Nipple balms may not be necessary if your Montgomery glands are active, but if you do use one, opt for lanolin-free, fragrance-free options.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

In most cases, these bumps are nothing to worry about. But you should consult a doctor or lactation specialist if:

The bumps become painful or inflamed
You notice yellow or green discharge
The area feels hot or hard to the touch
There's a new lump that persists or grows
You have a fever along with breast tenderness

While rare, infections in Montgomery glands or surrounding ducts should be addressed promptly to avoid complications like abscess formation or mastitis.

Emotional and Practical Support

It’s understandable to feel self-conscious about changes in your breasts, especially ones that feel unfamiliar or not widely talked about. You’re not vain or paranoid for noticing or asking about these bumps.

Validate your concerns: It’s okay to be curious or worried. Your body is changing rapidly, and it’s normal to want answers.
Discuss body changes openly: With your doctor, partner, or support group. You’re not alone in this.
Avoid online myths: Many forums mistakenly compare these glands to clogged pores or cysts. They are not the same.

Your body knows what it’s doing, and Montgomery glands are one of its quietest, smartest adaptations.

Montgomery glands might not get much attention in pregnancy books, but they’re quietly working to protect your body and baby. These white bumps are normal, useful, and usually no cause for concern. The more you understand them, the more confident and at ease you’ll feel navigating your body’s incredible changes. If in doubt, reach out. There’s no question too small when it comes to your health.

FAQs on White Bumps Around Your Areola: Montgomery Glands

Are these bumps a sign of infection or clogged pores?
No. Montgomery glands are natural, oil-producing structures — not acne, cysts, or clogged pores.
Should I clean or pop them?
No. These glands are self-cleaning. Squeezing or scrubbing can lead to irritation or infection.
Can I still breastfeed if they’re prominent or leaking?
Yes. These glands are meant to support breastfeeding. They may even help your baby find the nipple more easily.