What does Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) entail?

Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) is characterized by a brief and intense wave of negative emotions that occurs during milk letdown while breastfeeding. This phenomenon is typically temporary and can include feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability shortly after the milk begins to flow. It’s important to note that this response is specifically tied to the emotional and hormonal changes that accompany the physical process of milk ejection.

The recognition of D-MER helps healthcare providers and breastfeeding mothers understand that this experience, while challenging, is a physiological response rather than a reflection of one's ability to bond with or nurture their child. Understanding this can significantly alleviate feelings of confusion or guilt mothers may face during breastfeeding when they encounter such emotions.

The other options do not accurately reflect D-MER; for example, the option regarding happiness contradicts the very definition of D-MER, which is centered around dysphoria, or negative feelings. The statements about physical discomfort and increased production of breast milk are also unrelated to the emotional aspect of D-MER, which specifically focuses on the emotional reaction during the milk ejection reflex.