Andrea,

Heme is green. It is a breakdown product of hemoglobin (remember how bruises sometimes go through a greenish phase while resolving?)

Perhaps this mother has developed a small papilloma or something similar releasing blood in one of her ducts. I have read of this explanation, and that it may be happening during breastfeeding itself, but unseen, it goes unnoticed until it comes to light because of subsequent pumping. 

If that is the problem, I have the impression from reading that in itself, it's not usually a serious problem, and doesn't continue very long. If it continues, then to be safe, asking a physician's opinion about necessity for the usual diagnostic tests of breast health sounds like a wise next step.

K. Jean Cotterman RNC-E, IBCLC
WIC Volunteer LC    Dayton OH

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