Galactoceles occur in women that are lactating (producing breast milk), often after stopping breastfeeding. They are breast milk filled cysts that occur when the lactiferous duct is blocked, preventing the gland from draining milk.

On examination:

• firm
• mobile
• painless lump usually beneath the areola.

They are benign and usually resolve without any treatment. It is possible to drain them with a needle. Rarely, they can become infected and require antibiotics.