Panic attacks are conditioned to be associated with an event.  It
sounds like this mother has a family history of panic attacks.  If
she had her first attack during MER, her mind could continue to
associate let-down with panic.  This happens for people who have
their first attack while driving or in a crowded place.  They find
the attacks recur when they enter the same situation.

Feelings of anxiety in the postpartum period are not uncommon.  For
some mothers these feeling intensify into an anxiety reaction and
become overwhelming.  A good book for mothers and professionals is:.

Postpartum Survival Guide  by Ann Dunnwold & Diane Sanford,  New
Harbinger Publications, 1994

to get an idea of what's in the book try this site:

http://www.whcws.com/articles/oct94.htm

It is written for mums and includes postpartum anxiety reaction. It
discusses ideas for coping, types of therapy and the use of
anti-anxiety medications if absolutely necessary.  The book has many
positive statements about breastfeeding.

If this mother understands more about her feelings perhaps she will
be able to give breastfeeding a chance. Even if she chooses to wean
she could still benefit from an exploration of her feelings and
symptoms of anxiety.  She might continue to experience panic
attacks  but associate then with another event.

Janet Vandenberg
RN, BScN
Ontario, Canada