Why do I get so angry when breastfeeding?

Understanding Anger During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a serene bonding experience between mother and child, yet for some women, it can evoke unexpected feelings of anger and agitation. This emotional response can be perplexing and distressing, leading many to question why such feelings arise during what is supposed to be a nurturing act.
The Role of D-MER
One significant factor contributing to feelings of anger while breastfeeding is a condition known as Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER). This phenomenon involves a sudden onset of negative emotions, including anger, anxiety, or sadness, that some mothers experience just before the milk letdown occurs. These feelings are typically short-lived, dissipating once the milk begins to flow. The exact cause of D-MER is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Aversion and Agitation (BAA)
Another related condition is Breastfeeding Aversion and Agitation (BAA). This phenomenon can manifest as feelings of irritation or anger when a mother is breastfeeding, often accompanied by intrusive thoughts or a sense of being overwhelmed. BAA is particularly noted among mothers who are tandem feeding (nursing more than one child) or those who are pregnant while breastfeeding. The emotional turmoil can stem from physical discomfort, fatigue, or the demands of managing multiple children.
Hormonal Influences
Hormonal fluctuations play a crucial role in the breastfeeding experience. The release of oxytocin during breastfeeding is intended to promote bonding and relaxation; however, for some women, this hormonal surge can trigger contrasting emotions. The interplay of hormones, combined with the physical demands of breastfeeding, can lead to feelings of frustration or anger, especially if the mother is already experiencing stress or fatigue.
Psychological Factors
Mental health also significantly impacts the breastfeeding experience. Women who are dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety may find that their emotional responses during breastfeeding are heightened. The act of breastfeeding can sometimes serve as a reminder of these underlying issues, leading to feelings of anger or resentment.
Conclusion
Experiencing anger while breastfeeding is not uncommon and can be attributed to a variety of factors, including D-MER, BAA, hormonal changes, and psychological stressors. Understanding these emotions is crucial for mothers who may feel isolated or confused by their feelings. It’s important for mothers to seek support and discuss their experiences with healthcare providers or lactation consultants, who can offer guidance and reassurance. Recognizing that these feelings are valid and not a reflection of one’s parenting abilities can help in navigating the complexities of breastfeeding.

Is it normal to not enjoy breastfeeding?

Depression or other negative emotions upon milk let-down (D-MER) Whilst not enjoying breastfeeding all the time, or developing nursing aversion is very common, a small number of women experience far stronger negative emotions when breastfeeding.

How do you handle aggression in nursing?

The Art of De-escalation in Managing Aggressive Patients and Emotional Reactivity

1. Maintain a Calm Demeanor.
2. Practice Active Listening.
3. Provide Patients an Opportunity to Vent.
4. Display a Non-Defensive Posture.
5. Impart Empathy and Compassion.
6. Resolution Stage.

Why does breastfeeding make me so angry?

A small percentage of women respond to breastfeeding hormones with a sudden onset of feeling sad, angry, homesick, or anxious. Often identified at D-MER (Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex), this condition is thought to be caused by the rise in prolactin levels, which briefly competes with and reduces dopamine levels.

Can breastfeeding cause mood swings?

Oxytocin and prolactin
While breastfeeding, these hormones promoted feelings of contentment, peace, and intimacy. As these hormone levels drop, some individuals experience complex physical and emotional symptoms including moodiness, sadness, or insomnia.

Why does breastfeeding put me in a bad mood?

A little understood phenomenon is Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER). Mothers suffering from this physiological condition feel intense sadness and low mood from just before a breastfeed and for a couple of minutes of it starting, some experiencing it again with subsequent let downs through the feeding session.

Can breastfeeding hormones cause anger?

Women are often told to expect that breast-feeding will bring about warm and fuzzy feelings, thanks to the bonding hormone oxytocin — and most of the time, that’s true. But it’s in stark contrast to what women with D-MER might feel, which can range from sadness to anger to hopelessness.

How do I stop being aggressive while breastfeeding?

How to get relief

1. Hand express or pump a little bit of milk before getting your baby, and then help him latch on.
2. Release or detach your baby when you start to feel the overactive letdown.
3. Try laid-back nursing.
4. Manually slow the flow of milk at the areola with your fingers.
5. Limit bottles.

Why is breastfeeding so hard on mental health?

Common breastfeeding problems
Women often struggle with the pressure to feed very regularly, as well as the lack of sleep due to nighttime feeding. As a result, lots of new mothers find themselves feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and struggling with their mental health.

How long does it take for hormones to balance after breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

What is it called when you get angry while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding aversion, simply put, is when negative emotions and feelings are triggered during a breastfeeding session.