%0 Journal Article
%T Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex: A Case Series.
%A Ureño TL
%A Buchheit TL
%A Hopkinson SG
%A Berry-Cabán CS
%J Breastfeed Med
%V 13
%N 1
%D Jan/Feb 2018
%M 29115857
%F 2.335
%R 10.1089/bfm.2017.0086
%X Dysphoric milk ejection reflex (D-MER) is characterized by an abrupt dysphoria, or undesirable feeling that occurs with the MER and continues for no more than a few minutes. After milk ejection, the dysphoria vanishes.
This case series provides a report of three women who have experienced D-MER. All three women described the sudden onset of negative feelings at the initiation of each breastfeeding session. The dysphoria vanished after each milk ejection.
Literature on D-MER is limited to one published qualitative research study and two published case reports. As a result, lactation professionals and other providers in the healthcare setting rarely recognize this condition.
The case studies presented here provide evidence for the presence of D-MER. Research is needed to better understand its pathophysiology, incidence, and treatment options.