Final answer:
Women with mastitis are not required to stop breastfeeding, and doing so can actually assist in resolving the condition. Breast engorgement and leakage after abrupt cessation are due to the body's continuation of milk production despite the lack of demand.
Step-by-step explanation:
Women diagnosed with mastitis do not necessarily have to stop breastfeeding. In fact, continuing to breastfeed can help clear up the infection. Meanwhile, the reason a woman might experience breast engorgement and leakage after suddenly stopping breastfeeding is because lactation involves the continuous production of milk in response to demand. If breastfeeding stops abruptly, the body doesn't immediately cease milk production, leading to engorgement and leakage.
Lactation supports the infant with ideal nutrition and passive immunity while encouraging mild uterine contractions for the mother's uterus to return to pre-pregnancy size. Additionally, prolactin and estrogen levels adjust during breastfeeding to stimulate milk production for the next feeding. Ceasing breastfeeding after an established routine can disrupt these hormonal and production balances, resulting in the symptoms observed.