Hey there, fellow moms and breastfeeding enthusiasts! Today, we’re taking an in-depth look into a topic that might not be as commonly discussed as engorgement or latch issues, but it’s just as important: DMER. Breastfeeding is often depicted as a serene bonding experience between mother and baby, but for some moms, it can be accompanied by unexpected emotions that range from sadness to anxiety. If you’ve ever felt a sudden wave of negativity wash over you during breastfeeding, you might be experiencing something called Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex, or DMER for short. Let’s take a closer look at this phenomenon, its recognition, and coping strategies.
Understanding DMER:
DMER, short for Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex, is a relatively lesser-known condition characterized by negative emotions that occur specifically during milk letdown, the moment when your breast releases milk in response to your baby’s sucking or a breast pump. It’s a visceral reaction that can make breastfeeding sessions feel like an emotional rollercoaster. The exact cause of DMER is still not fully understood, but it’s believed to be linked to hormonal fluctuations during milk letdown, particularly involving the hormone dopamine. For mothers with DMER, the release of dopamine triggers a brief dysphoric response before returning to normal shortly after the milk ejection.
Recognizing DMER:
- Emotional Symptoms: Be mindful of sudden, intense negative emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, or irritability, that occur specifically during milk letdown.
- Physical Sensations: Some mothers report experiencing physical symptoms like a sinking feeling in the stomach or tightness in the chest during DMER episodes.
- Consistency: DMER symptoms tend to occur consistently with each milk letdown, distinguishing it from general mood fluctuations.
Coping Strategies:
- Supportive Network: Connect with other breastfeeding mothers who have experienced DMER. Sharing your experiences and hearing from others can provide validation and reassurance.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that DMER is not your fault and does not reflect your love for your baby or your ability to breastfeed. Be gentle with yourself and acknowledge the strength it takes to cope with DMER. Prioritize self-care activities that promote your mental and emotional well-being.
- Adjust Breastfeeding Routine: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions, settings, and techniques to see if any adjustments alleviate DMER symptoms. Some mothers find that nursing in a calm, quiet environment or practicing relaxation techniques before breastfeeding can help.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation, to help alleviate anxiety and manage emotional distress.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about DMER and its triggers. Understanding the physiological basis of DMER can help demystify the experience and reduce feelings of confusion or helplessness.
- Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for personalized guidance and support. They can offer strategies to help you manage DMER and may suggest treatment options if necessary. If DMER significantly impacts your daily life or breastfeeding experience, seeking counseling from a mental health professional trained in perinatal mood disorders can be beneficial.
Medication Options:
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications such as SSRIs, dopamine modulators, or anxiolytics to help manage DMER symptoms. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of medication therapy with your healthcare provider.
Alternative Feeding Options:
If DMER continues to significantly impact your breastfeeding experience despite trying various coping strategies, it’s okay to explore alternative feeding options that are best for you and your baby. This might include supplementing with formula, exclusive pumping, or gradually transitioning to bottle feeding.
Will DMER Go Away?
For many mothers, DMER tends to diminish or resolve over time as their breastfeeding journey progresses. However, the duration of DMER varies for each individual, and some mothers may continue to experience it throughout their breastfeeding journey.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there is help available. With time, support, and self-care, many mothers find that DMER becomes more manageable, allowing them to focus on the joys of breastfeeding and bonding with their baby. If you’re experiencing DMER and finding it challenging to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You’ve got this!