Hello,
I have been reading for quite awhile and have only posted a few times.
I have a question for those who use the cup feeding method for a new baby who
refuses to nurse. I have very good luck with this process and wonder why more
hospitals would not consider this method? They seem so quick to go to the
pacifier or bottle if the baby will not latch.

I am working with a mom who has a four day old baby. I saw her yesterday (day
3) and the baby would not latch AT ALL. She was very awake and had been given
many bottles and pacifiers (from hospital). Mom had an epidural and is still
on pain medication. It was a very long birth ending in forceps. The baby has
never had a good feed. The mom has nursed her 1st child but always felt she
did not have enough milk.
I have her on a no nipples of any sort routine, pumping, and cup feeding.  I
have also recommended bathing with the baby and skin-to-skin contact.
The baby will now suck a tiny bit (after 1 day).

I would love to know how others feel about cup feeding. I am not sure how to
do a search if this has been discussed already? Three weeks ago I did try a
nipple shield for the first time and it did not work AT ALL. I often wonder
about using it if the cupfeeding does not resolve the situation in 2-3 days.
It is hard to convice the mom it can (cupfeeding) work if given time to
relearn how to suck (without the nipples of a bottle). I have been using 1
ounce portion cups from a large grocery whearhouse store. They have smooth
rims and are easy to hold while holding baby.

Thanks,
Annette Leibovitz, IBCLC
Private Practice, Buffalo Grove, IL