Final answer:
Lactational mastitis is most common in the first few weeks postpartum as the mother and infant establish breastfeeding. It can be caused by sudden changes in breastfeeding practices, such as abrupt cessation, leading to engorgement, pain, and milk leakage. Proper management often includes continued breastfeeding or pumping and possibly antibiotics if infection is present.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lactational mastitis is most common in the postpartum period, particularly in the first few weeks after childbirth when the process of lactation is getting established. This condition is related to milk production in the breasts and can be aggravated by sudden changes in breastfeeding patterns, such as when a mother stops breastfeeding abruptly. Mastitis may involve symptoms like breast engorgement, pain, and leakage due to the milk that remains in the breast tissue. The composition of breast milk changes significantly during this period, initially starting with colostrum immediately after birth, transitioning to transitional milk around the third postpartum day, and reaching mature milk approximately after the tenth postpartum day.It is during the establishment of breastfeeding and the frequent changes in the milk demand by the infant that the mother's breasts may become susceptible to mastitis. The condition can occur due to engorgement, blocked milk ducts, or infection. Managing lactational mastitis often involves continued breastfeeding or pumping to maintain milk flow, but in cases of infection, treatment may include antibiotics.