What is a common cause of breast discomfort in a postpartum client on the third day after a cesarean delivery?

Physiologic engorgement is a common cause of breast discomfort in postpartum clients around the third day after a cesarean delivery. This phenomenon occurs when the breasts begin to produce milk and can lead to swelling and fullness as milk production increases. Typically, this engorgement peaks around the second to third day postpartum, coinciding with the surge in milk supply following the initial days after birth when colostrum is provided. As the body adjusts and milk volume increases, the breasts can become overly full, leading to discomfort and sometimes tenderness.

Clients may experience symptoms such as tightness, heaviness, and warmth in the breasts, which are often transient and subside with effective breastfeeding or pumping. It's important for postpartum clients to be educated on recognizing this engorgement and employing techniques like frequent feeding or pumping to alleviate discomfort.

Other options, like infection, mastitis, and blocked ducts, can also cause breast discomfort, but they are less common on the third day postpartum. Infection and mastitis usually present with more severe symptoms like fever and systemic signs of illness, while blocked ducts typically arise later if not addressed early. Therefore, physiologic engorgement is the most expected and typical cause of breast discomfort for someone at this stage postpartum.