Unvas-Moberg, K & Kendall-Tackett, K. (2018). The mystery of D-MER; What can hormonal research tell us about dysphoric milk-ejection reflex? Clinical Lactation, 9(1). http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/2158-0782.9.1.23

The Mystery of D-MER; What can hormonal research tell us about dysphoric milk-ejection reflex?

Grinnell College

- Breastfeeding has psychological and physical benefits for both mothers and infants
- Its immunological benefits are considered to be the most effective preventive means of reducing the death rate of children under five years old. 

Breastfeeding

- According to the Surgeon General, the main barriers to breastfeeding include lack of knowledge, social norms, poor family and social support, embarrassment, lactation problems, returning to work, and inadequate access to health services.


Barriers to Breastfeeding in the US

Breastfeeding library

Hormones involved in breastfeeding are meant to ensure that is occures, that enough milk is produced, and that the mothers are able to tolerate the process. Some mothers are able to find enjoyment in breastfeeding, though many find it irritating, frustrating or unpleasant. Hormones involved in breastfeeding also can trigger the fight or flight mechanism within the mother, allowing them to better protect their child if necessary.

Some of the hormones that are involved are oxytocin and prolactin.

Hormones in breastfeeding

With D-MER, the mother experiences dysphoria during milk ejection or breast feeding.  It is reported as a sudden change in emotions when feeding occures. It typically disappears within 10 minutes after the beginning of feeding. This is different from postpartum depression because it lasts for a short time directly after the beginning of feeding. 

Dysphoric Milk-Ejection Reflex (D-MER)

Skin-to-Skin contact between a parent and child during breastfeeding is able to increase oxytocin and decrease stress in the parent and child. Contact soon after birth is heavily correlated to reduced stress.  In the child, there is a decreased sympathetic nervous system response.Babies are also less afraid and more social with the mother.

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