In which group is mastitis and breast engorgement more likely to occur?

Mastitis and breast engorgement are more likely to occur in primipara individuals, who are women giving birth for the first time. This is primarily due to the fact that first-time mothers are still adjusting to the physiological and emotional changes that accompany breastfeeding. They may experience difficulties with breastfeeding techniques, leading to an inadequate latch or ineffective feeding patterns. Such challenges can contribute to engorgement, which may then increase the risk of mastitis—a painful breast infection that can occur when milk stasis occurs in the breast tissue.

In contrast, those who have experienced multiple pregnancies and breastfeeding episodes, such as multipara mothers, generally have more experience and knowledge about effective breastfeeding practices, which can decrease the likelihood of these conditions. Teen mothers may also face unique challenges with breastfeeding, but the experience gained through previous births typically contributes to better management of breastfeeding issues in subsequent pregnancies. Single mothers, while sometimes facing additional stressors, do not have a direct correlation with an increased risk of mastitis and engorgement specifically due to their relationship status. Therefore, the challenges faced by primipara individuals make them more susceptible to these conditions.