Pregnancy can be a journey filled with various challenges, and for some new mothers, breastfeeding can come with unexpected emotional hurdles. One such condition, known as D-MER (Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex), can cause intense feelings of anxiety during the milk letdown process.
When I had my first child, I was relieved that breastfeeding went smoothly, thanks to the guidance of lactation consultants who taught me effective techniques. However, I experienced something peculiar and often frightening: each time my daughter latched on and my milk released, a wave of anxiety and panic would wash over me. These feelings, lasting about 20 to 30 seconds, were unsettling and left me worried that something terrible was about to happen. I attributed these emotions to my long-standing struggle with anxiety, assuming it was just a biological response.
When my second child arrived, I was met with the same unsettling sensations, but thankfully, they did not hinder my ability to breastfeed her for 13 months. Intrigued by my experience, I sought answers as a health journalist. Many experts I consulted were unaware of this phenomenon until I spoke with a lactation consultant who identified my feelings as D-MER—a genuine condition.
What Exactly is D-MER?
D-MER is a disruption in the milk ejection reflex that can induce negative emotions during milk letdown, lasting anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. According to Alia Macrina Heise, a lactation consultant based in Naples, New York, this condition arises when there is a significant drop in dopamine levels, which affects the balance of prolactin—the hormone responsible for milk production.
Despite being recognized only in the last decade, research on D-MER is limited, and estimates regarding its prevalence among breastfeeding mothers vary. According to Macrina Heise, most breastfeeding moms do not experience this condition.
Symptoms of D-MER
Those experiencing D-MER may feel a range of emotions, including anxiety, irritability, dread, panic, homesickness, anger, paranoia, or sadness. The severity of D-MER varies among individuals and can be categorized into three types: despondency D-MER, anxiety D-MER, and agitation D-MER. In extreme cases, thoughts of self-harm may arise; however, it’s essential to approach this topic with sensitivity.
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In summary, D-MER can manifest as unexpected feelings of anxiety during breastfeeding, affecting mothers in varying degrees. While it is a relatively new area of study, understanding this condition is the first step toward addressing it.
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