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Understanding the Sadness During Breastfeeding
For many mothers, the experience of breastfeeding is often envisioned as a serene and joyful bonding moment with their newborn. However, the reality can be starkly different. A significant number of mothers report feelings of sadness or emotional distress during breastfeeding, a phenomenon that can be both confusing and distressing.
The Role of Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER)
One of the primary explanations for these feelings is a condition known as Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER). This condition is characterized by a sudden wave of sadness or negative emotions that can occur just before or during the milk ejection reflex, which is the body’s natural response to breastfeeding. Research suggests that D-MER is not merely a psychological issue but rather a physiological one, linked to hormonal changes that occur during lactation.
Mothers experiencing D-MER may feel an intense emotional dip that can feel overwhelming, often described as a sense of despair or hopelessness. This reaction is thought to be triggered by a drop in dopamine levels that coincides with the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding. While the exact prevalence of D-MER is not well-documented, it is believed to be more common than many realize, potentially affecting a significant number of breastfeeding mothers.
Emotional Complexity of Breastfeeding
Beyond D-MER, the emotional landscape of breastfeeding is complex. Many mothers face a myriad of feelings, including anxiety, stress, and even guilt, which can stem from various sources such as postpartum depression or the pressures of motherhood. The act of breastfeeding can bring these emotions to the forefront, making it a challenging experience for some.
Moreover, societal expectations often paint breastfeeding as a purely joyful experience, which can lead to feelings of isolation for those who struggle with negative emotions during this time. The disconnect between expectation and reality can exacerbate feelings of sadness, as mothers may feel they are not living up to the idealized image of motherhood.
Seeking Support and Understanding
For mothers who find themselves feeling sad while breastfeeding, it is crucial to understand that they are not alone. Recognizing D-MER and its physiological basis can help in alleviating some of the distress associated with these feelings. Additionally, seeking support from healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, or support groups can provide valuable resources and reassurance.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding is often portrayed as a blissful experience, the reality can be much more nuanced. Understanding the potential causes of sadness, such as D-MER and the emotional complexities of motherhood, can empower mothers to navigate their feelings and seek the support they need.
Is it normal to hate the feeling of breastfeeding?
Maybe you’ve discovered these negative feelings arise only at certain times: when you’re tired, around the time of your period, during pregnancy, etc. However you experience it, Breastfeeding Aversion and Agitation (BAA) is a very real phenomenon and one that often leaves those who experience it feeling guilty.
Why does breastfeeding make me feel emotional?
It’s a physiological (read: not mental) response to your body releasing milk, and can bring on feelings of intense sadness, despair, anxiety and more as you’re starting to nurse your baby.
Does breastfeeding cause emotional changes?
While breastfeeding is associated with maternal mood and postpartum depression, it is difficult to know whether it is breastfeeding or maternal mood or affect that is driving (causing) the effects due to the complex relation between breastfeeding and maternal mood and affect.
Why do I feel sad when I breastfeed?
Women with D-MER feel negative emotions seconds before their let-down reflex. It happens when they are breastfeeding or expressing and can also happen if their breasts let down at times when they aren’t breastfeeding. D-MER is very different from Postnatal Depression (PND) or an anxiety disorder.