CST sounds like something worth pursuing.  I am assuming that organic causes
other than hunger have been ruled out and it is just a behavior that needs
adapting to make BF work better.

Tried cup feeding?  It is worth a try, I think.  I have on several occasions
seen babies who just wouldn't open their mouths before, suddenly be willing
to gape widely after a single appetizer of EBM or even water from a cup.
The nice thing is you don't have to make a commitment to changing methods,
just try once and see how baby reacts.  If it works, it's easy to try again
at the next opportunity, and if it doesn't, then at least you've tried it.
The usual, IME, is for baby to look puzzled and maybe even annoyed as the
cup is offered.  Then when the liquid meets lips, baby looks neutrally
surprised.  If he gets agitated and upset, you just back off.  Usually the
initial surprise changes to a pleased expression, and once the contents of
the cup are consumed, it's time to see whether there has been any effect on
willingness to open.  I never cease to be amazed when it works.  You see
that light bulb in the thought balloon go on and it's done.

The other thing I am thinking is that his clamping down could be tension,
from worrying about never getting the really abundant meals he should be
having.  I feel this is a more positive sign than listlessness and
disinterest, but it can change to that if he doesn't start riding the milky
train (too young for gravy) soon.  Long term poor stimulation of the breasts
may also constitute a more permanent hindrance to adequacy of mother's
supply but I am the original eternal optimist where supply is concerned.  I
do feel there is urgency in getting the baby to the breast, as many people
fall out of love with pumps if it seems they will never wean their breasts
from them.  It's easier to stay motivated if the goal appears to be drawing
nearer.

I'd be sure to let the mother know cup feeding is meant as a very short term
tactic, perhaps just a few episodes, and that she is not being presented
with yet another method to try and err with.  And I would strongly encourage
her to continue every single thing she is doing that gives them pleasurable
experiences together.

Do let us know what happens to this family, OK?
Rachel Myr
Kristiansand, Norway

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