Everything works sometimes.  However, just because something works once
doesn't make it a good idea or a real "method" for solving a problem.

In addition, I would be wary of a doctor who treats breast refusal over
the phone.  If a breastfeeding baby suddenly stops nursing, it can be an
early sign of illness, including ear infections, abdominal obstructions,
a pulled neck muscle and a lot more. Often, it is just that the baby is
teething.  Maybe the baby had his/her breathing obstructed at the breast
and is afraid.  Maybe the mother yelled when the baby bit her.  Usually
there is a reason for a sudden nursing strike.  We may never figure out
what it was, but we should respect the baby enough to try.

I feel more comfortable following the old adage of "starve the suck, not
the baby"  when I work with breast refusers. Cup feeding combined with
skin to skin contact, a warm bath, sleepy nursings work well.  I've
never had a mother starve a baby into submission. And I have gotten lots
of babies back on the breast.

I don't think one case report should entice anyone to try somthing that
sounds dangerous and cruel--remember EZZO, sleep training and regular
corporal punishment "work" for some people too.  That doesn't mean it is
the preferred  way for people to treat other people. Babies are people
and it is our responsibility is to treat them ethically as well as
efficaciously.

Judy Gelman, IBCLC
Washington, DC