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Dictionary · Eponym

Montgomery tubercles

Small raised bumps on the areola, the darker skin around the nipple.

mont-GUM-er-ee TOO-ber-kulz noun

What it means

Tiny glands in the areola that release an oily fluid that keeps the nipple and areola soft, protects them from germs, and may help a newborn find the breast by smell. They often become larger and more noticeable in pregnancy. They are named after William Montgomery, an Irish obstetrician.

For the nurse

Teach pregnant and breastfeeding clients that the bumps are normal, and to wash the breasts with water only: soap removes the protective oil and can dry and crack the nipples.

At a glance

Also writtenMontgomery glands, Montgomery's tubercles, Montgomery gland

Related terms

lactation

The making and release of milk by the breasts.

letdown

The reflex that pushes milk out of the breast's milk glands toward the nipple during breastfeeding.

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