Final answer:
A red, swollen, and tender breast postpartum might indicate a breast infection like mastitis, and warmth and continued breastfeeding may actually help. Mastitis is related to clogged milk ducts and is different from other complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, which can occur if placental fragments are left behind. Gradual weaning can prevent engorgement and leakage when stopping breastfeeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your postpartum client complains of a red, swollen, and tender breast 8 days after delivery, it might indicate that she is experiencing a breast infection, such as mastitis. This condition can occur when a milk duct becomes clogged and infected, leading to inflammation and pain. Applying heat can actually help improve the situation by promoting circulation and helping to unclog the blocked duct. Continuing breastfeeding is not contraindicated; in fact, it can help resolve the issue by emptying the breast of milk, which may alleviate the engorgement and reduce infection risk.
It is important to watch for increased redness, swelling and pain after a cut or abrasion has been cleaned and bandaged, as these are signs of potential infection. In the case of a breast infection like mastitis, similar symptoms can occur, and it's essential to seek medical attention. If fragments of the placenta remain in the uterus after childbirth, this can cause complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, but it is unrelated to breast infections postpartum.
A woman experiencing breast engorgement and leakage after suddenly stopping breastfeeding is likely dealing with the continued production of breast milk. Abrupt cessation of breastfeeding can lead to milk buildup, causing breasts to become engorged, tender, and sometimes leak milk. Gradual weaning is recommended to prevent or mitigate these symptoms.