Prolactin was originally implicated as the cause of D-MER, however the time profile of it's release does not match oup with the onset of D-MER symptoms. D-MER lasts aproximately 10 minutes after onset of breastfeeding while prolactin starts producing 10 minutes after the onset of breastfeeding.

Prolactin and Dysphoric Milk-Ejection Reflex

Prolactin is a hormone that causes milk production. It is released gradually after 10-20 minutes  from the point a parent begins breastfeeding. Prolactin release is mediated by the decrease of dopamine levels in the hypothalamus. The dopamine affect prolactin-producing cells in the anterior pituitary.

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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

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?

Oxytocin has increased release when a women starts to breastfeed. During that time, women often experience thirst and hunger. Some also have a short period of decreased heartrate and bloodpressure. The release of oxytocin faciliates interactions with the baby to help make the mother less anxious. High levels of circulating oxytocin are associated with greater attachment between mother and child.

There is also the triggering of aggression and the fight-flight response. Oxytocin promotes a protective response from the mother when she is within hostile or dangerous environments with her child.

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