About this Talk
DMER (dysphoric milk ejaculation reflex) is an under recognized and often misunderstood part of the breastfeeding experience. DMER is suspected to be experienced by 25% of the breastfeeding population. It is characterized by a sudden, intense emotional response to the lactation let down. Moms often cite emotions like depression, shame, anxiety, anger, as well as physiological feelings like emptiness, a pit in the stomach, and agitation.
DMER significantly impacts the postpartum mental health and early motherhood experience. Many moms keep DMER to themselves out of confusion and shame and many providers are unfamiliar with DMER and effective treatment methods. With this combination of experiential isolation and lack of screening, key opportunities to care for women navigating the complex experience that is DMER are missed.
Demystifying DMER will provide psychoeducation alongside practical support strategies, benefiting moms and aligned perinatal providers alike.
