Why is breastfeeding so triggering?

Understanding the Triggers of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often heralded as the optimal way to nourish infants, yet it can evoke a complex array of emotions and reactions among mothers and society at large. The phenomenon of breastfeeding can be particularly triggering for several reasons, ranging from personal experiences to societal pressures.
Emotional Responses and Breastfeeding Aversion
One of the lesser-discussed aspects of breastfeeding is the emotional turmoil it can cause for some mothers. Research indicates that a condition known as breastfeeding aversion and agitation (BAA) can occur, particularly in women who are breastfeeding while pregnant or those who are tandem feeding a newborn and a toddler. This aversion can manifest as feelings of discomfort, irritability, or even resentment during breastfeeding sessions. Such emotional responses can be deeply distressing, leading mothers to feel isolated or guilty about their feelings, which can further complicate their breastfeeding experience.
Societal Pressures and Guilt
The societal narrative surrounding breastfeeding often emphasizes the mantra that “breast is best.” This pervasive message can create immense pressure on mothers to breastfeed, leading to feelings of inadequacy or failure if they are unable to do so. A study highlighted that many women feel overwhelmed by the expectations set by media portrayals and public discourse, which can trigger feelings of guilt and anxiety. The emotional weight of these societal expectations can be particularly heavy for new mothers, who are already navigating the challenges of motherhood.
The Role of Media
Media coverage of breastfeeding can also contribute to its triggering nature. Positive stories about breastfeeding can promote supportive norms, but negative or sensationalized headlines can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy among mothers. For instance, when studies suggest that breastfeeding correlates with better academic outcomes for children, the ensuing media storm can leave many mothers feeling judged or criticized for their choices. This dichotomy in media representation can create a hostile environment for mothers, making them feel as though they are constantly under scrutiny.
Personal Experiences and Challenges
The personal journey of breastfeeding is unique for every mother, and many face significant challenges that can lead to emotional distress. Factors such as physical discomfort, difficulties with latching, or concerns about milk supply can all contribute to a negative breastfeeding experience. These challenges can trigger feelings of frustration and helplessness, particularly when compounded by societal expectations and personal aspirations.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding can be a deeply triggering experience for many mothers due to a combination of emotional responses, societal pressures, and personal challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for fostering a more supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to navigate their journeys without the added burden of guilt or anxiety. As society continues to evolve in its understanding of motherhood and breastfeeding, it is essential to create spaces where mothers feel empowered to make choices that are best for them and their children, free from judgment and stigma.

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.

Is it normal not to 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.

Why is it so hard emotionally to stop breastfeeding?

Hormones also contribute to feelings of sadness and depression during weaning. Prolactin, the hormone that is required for milk production, and oxytocin, which is responsible for the release of milk through let downs, both help calm and relax mothers and contribute to feelings of love.

Are breastfed babies more attached to their mothers?

Breastfeeding and mother–infant attachment
Moreover, in a prospective longitudinal study of 675 mother–infant dyads, increased duration of breastfeeding was associated with maternal sensitive responsiveness, increased attachment security, and decreased attachment disorganization when infants were 14 months of age [71].

Why do I suddenly hate the feeling of breastfeeding?

Hormonal shifts are one of the most common causes of breastfeeding aversion. These shifts are usually due to either menstruation, ovulation, or pregnancy.

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.

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.

Why does breastfeeding make you so 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.

Why does breastfeeding trigger me?

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.

What is dysregulated breastfeeding?

Because a vigorous sucking pattern without stopping is a new descriptor for a dysregulated breastfeeding pattern, this study has identified a behavior that—if future research is supportive—care providers and lactation specialists should assess.