I’m a lactation counselor with Ardo. Let’s talk Montgomery glands!
No, those little bumps around your nipples aren’t pimples! Nope, those little bumps surrounding your nipple on the on the areola are called Montgomery glands. They produce a natural oil that cleans, lubricates, and protects your nipple during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The oil actually contains an enzyme that kills bacteria and keeps the areola moist. Our favorite word, am I right?!
Women have about of nine glands on each areola. Although some women have none and others have up to 38. Most moms even notice that their Montgomery glands get bigger during pregnancy.
And what I think is most cool – it’s thought that the oil secreted by these glands smells like the amniotic fluid your baby has lived in for the last 9 months. This smell helps guide your baby to your breast to initiate breastfeeding for the very first time. Pretty remarkable!