I need some input for a mother I saw today.  She became ill when her infant
was 6 months and had to be hospitalized.  She was put on antibiotics that
she was told were incompatible with breastfeeding.  Baby was off breast for
3 weeks.  (I know, mismanaged but I had no input at this point!)  Prior to
this, he had never had a bottle and mom was planning to nurse at least 2
years.  Last Sunday, she went to put him back to breast (she had pumped to
keep her supply up) and he refused!  Has rejected breast since, screaming
each time she tries.

I saw her for the first time today.  He makes no attempt to latch, just
screams as she puts him into position.  While she was giving him a bottle, I
had her turn him to the breast.  He latched to nipple, sort of, only if
bottle nipple was also in mouth.  I tried a nipple shield, he suckled a
little, then started screaming again.  He will take her pumped milk from the
bottle.

I have suggested cuddling/loving him to breast, offer breast when he's
sleepy, try rebirthing (he might be too old but it won't hurt anything), but
don't force him since it makes him more resistent.  She was excited when I
told her I would ask input from a source of 2000 experts.

Any suggestions????

DeDe Vance RN, CLC