Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex

Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) is a condition of negative emotional responses that arise during breastfeeding. These emotional responses may be described as waves of sadness, anger, or anxiety that are intense at the start of breastfeeding and resolve within a few minutes after the baby is actively suckling. D-MER results from the sudden decrease in a chemical in the brain called dopamine immediately prior to breast milk letdown. D-MER is not postpartum depression or breastfeeding aversion. D-MER is a physiological response not a psychological one. The condition, if severe, may be treated with medication. For more information, please call the InfantRisk Center at 806-352-2519.