If you experience feelings of sadness or anxiety during the letdown reflex while breastfeeding, you may be encountering a lesser-known condition known as Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER). For some mothers, breastfeeding is not the blissful bonding experience that is often envisioned. Instead, it can bring forth negative emotions that seem to arise exclusively during nursing sessions.
What is D-MER?
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) is a condition that affects certain lactating women, leading to dysphoric feelings—essentially, a sense of unhappiness—just before milk is released from the breasts. This emotional state is transient, lasting only a few minutes. Although D-MER has likely existed for ages, it gained attention in 2007 when lactation consultant Sarah Thompson recognized her own intense negative emotions while nursing.
What are the Symptoms of D-MER?
Women with D-MER may experience a range of unpleasant feelings, such as anxiety, sadness, or irritability, specifically during milk letdown. These feelings can feel overwhelming, yet they usually dissipate quickly after the milk ejection occurs.
What Causes D-MER?
The exact causes of D-MER are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding. The release of oxytocin, which promotes milk ejection, may also be linked to the emotional responses.
How is D-MER Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough discussion of symptoms with a healthcare provider who specializes in lactation or maternal health. Since D-MER is distinct from postpartum depression or the “baby blues,” it is crucial to communicate your experiences accurately.
How is D-MER Different from Postpartum Depression?
Unlike postpartum depression, which is a more chronic condition involving persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety, D-MER is episodic and linked specifically to the breastfeeding experience.
How is D-MER Managed?
Managing D-MER can include seeking support from lactation consultants or joining support groups where mothers can share their experiences. Some women find that using resources like this at-home insemination kit can also help them feel more in control of their breastfeeding journey.
For more insights and tips on navigating motherhood challenges, you might find this guide on after-school activities helpful. Additionally, this resource provides comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, D-MER can be an unsettling experience for nursing mothers, characterized by brief yet intense negative emotions during milk letdown. Understanding this condition can help mothers seek appropriate support and navigate their breastfeeding journey more effectively.