Breastfeeding Aversion

A.K.A. the reason you might not be enjoying breastfeeding your baby.

Ahhhh, breastfeeding aversion; once in a while, when I am working with a family, the breastfeeding parent will make a “confession.” And often, it’s that they don’t enjoy breastfeeding, that they’re struggling with negative feelings every time they latch their baby to the breast.

In some cases, this can be what we call breastfeeding aversion.

What is Breastfeeding Aversion?

Breastfeeding aversion refers to a condition in which a breastfeeding parent experiences negative feelings, such as discomfort or anxiety, towards breastfeeding her baby.

Symptoms of breastfeeding aversion can include avoidance or reluctance to breastfeed, reluctance to hold or be close to the baby, and feelings of anxiety or stress when the baby is near. This condition can lead to difficulties in maintaining breastfeeding and can have negative effects on the parent-baby bond.

What are the causes of breastfeeding aversion?

There are several possible causes of breastfeeding aversion, some of which include:

1. Physical pain or discomfort: Some parents may experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, such as sore nipples or engorgement, that can lead to negative feelings towards breastfeeding.
2. Difficulty with breastfeeding technique: Incorrect breastfeeding technique can lead to pain and discomfort, and can also cause the baby to have difficulty getting enough milk.
3. Emotional or psychological issues: Some parents may experience emotional or psychological issues, such as postpartum depression or anxiety, that can lead to negative feelings towards breastfeeding.
4. Trauma or past negative experiences: A parent who has experienced trauma or negative experiences related to breastfeeding, such as a traumatic birth or previous breastfeeding difficulties, may develop breastfeeding aversion.
5. Hormonal changes: Some parents may experience changes in their hormones that can affect their ability to breastfeed, leading to breastfeeding aversion.

It is worth noting that breastfeeding aversion can be multifactorial, meaning that there may be multiple causes for an individual parent.

What is the difference between breastfeeding aversion and DMER?

Breastfeeding aversion and Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (DMER) are two different conditions that can affect breastfeeding parents.

Parents who experience breastfeeding aversion will have negative feelings during the entire breastfeeding session, and the causes of breastfeeding aversion vary.

DMER, on the other hand, is a specific type of breastfeeding-related pain that occurs immediately prior to or during the let-down reflex (when the milk starts flowing from the breast). This pain is described as intense, usually lasts for a few seconds, and is usually accompanied by a feeling of dread or panic.

Unlike breastfeeding aversion, DMER doesn’t affect the overall attitude towards breastfeeding, the parents with DMER usually continue breastfeeding and don’t experience negative emotions towards it other than during the let down reflex.

While both conditions can affect breastfeeding parents, they have different causes and symptoms, and require different types of interventions.

How do you overcome breastfeeding aversion?

Overcoming breastfeeding aversion can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can be helpful for parents who are experiencing this condition:

1. Seek professional help: A lactation consultant or breastfeeding counselor can provide guidance and support to help the parent address any physical or technique issues that may be contributing to their discomfort. A counselor or therapist can also help the parent address any emotional or psychological issues that may be contributing to their breastfeeding aversion.
2. Address physical pain or discomfort: Sore nipples, engorgement, or other physical discomforts can be addressed through proper breastfeeding techniques.
3. Take care of yourself: Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and take time for yourself to reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Gradual exposure: Gradually exposing the parent to the breastfeeding experience can help them to build positive associations with breastfeeding and reduce their negative feelings.
5. Support: Talking to other parents who have experienced breastfeeding aversion can be helpful, as well as having a supportive partner or family member to help with the baby and provide emotional support.
6. Medications: Some antidepressants have been shown to be effective in reducing breastfeeding aversion, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

It is important to note that every parent is unique and what works for one parent may not work for another, so it is important to work with a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counselor to find the best approach for you.

Did you experience breastfeeding aversion? Share your story in the comments.