Giving a pacifier to a newborn baby is a controversial issue, and as a new parent, it can be difficult to know which path to take. There are many different factors that come into play when it comes to pacifier use. We have therefore outlined the most important ones below to help you in your choice.
Babies' need for closeness and security
The sucking reflex is strong in babies, especially newborns. The need to suck is a sign that the baby wants to feel closeness, security, and comfort. However, how much a child wants to suck is very individual; some are content as soon as they have been breastfed or bottle-fed, while others want to be close to the breast most of the time. As a breastfeeding mother with sore breasts, or a bottle-feeding parent for that matter, it can sometimes be demanding to have a baby with a great need for sucking and closeness. In such cases, the pacifier is an excellent alternative to keep the baby happy, and at the same time, give the parent a well-deserved break.
Looking for a pacifier for a newborn? See our wide range here.
Advantages of pacifiers
- Effective when the baby is difficult to comfort
- The pacifier allows others close to the parent to help comfort the baby
- It is often easier for the baby to fall back asleep when given a pacifier
- It is easier to establish routines around when, and how often, the child uses a pacifier, unlike when the child sucks their thumb.
- Some research has shown that the risk of sudden infant death syndrome decreases when the baby uses a pacifier; however, it is not confirmed why, but one possible explanation could be that the airways are kept more open when the baby sucks on a pacifier.
Disadvantages of pacifiers
- Long weaning process. It's easier to start using a pacifier than to stop, and many children use pacifiers for several years.
- The child may need braces if they continue to use a pacifier even after losing their baby teeth and their permanent teeth have started to emerge.
- Pacifier use can negatively affect speech as the child develops their speaking ability.
Important considerations before introducing a pacifier to a newborn
When your baby arrives, it is very important to ensure that they can suck and eat properly, and that the growth curve is steadily increasing. It may therefore be wise to wait a couple of weeks before introducing a pacifier, to ensure that feeding is well established. If the pacifier is given too early, there is a risk that the child may prefer the pacifier most of the time, which could negatively affect breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.
3 tricks when starting with a pacifier for a newborn
- When you notice your baby is becoming full, gently pull away the breast and replace it with the pacifier. When the baby sucks, try to gently pull the pacifier out; this usually results in the baby sucking harder and attaching to the pacifier more quickly. This trick also works with a bottle-fed baby.
- Try making smacking sounds while holding the pacifier in the baby's mouth.
- Gently massage the baby's cheek with your finger to trigger the sucking reflex.
When, and how often, should a baby use a pacifier?
It is important to establish a routine around pacifier use. A baby who is content and satisfied does not need a pacifier; limit use to when the baby needs comfort and when they are going to sleep (if you notice the need exists). You do both yourself and your baby a favor by not allowing pacifier use all the time, as it often makes it easier when it's time to phase out pacifier use.
5 reasons to choose a pacifier from Herobility
1. Soft and gentle
Our pacifiers have a thin and soft teat that fits perfectly in the baby's mouth. The soft edges are gentle on your child's delicate skin.
2. Large air vents
The pacifier's large air vents contribute to maximum comfort and prevent red and irritated skin.
3. Practical protective case
Our pacifiers come with a practical protective case that contributes to better hygiene. Thanks to the case, you can also quickly and easily sterilize the pacifier in the microwave.
4. Gentle on teeth and gums
The teat is ultra-thin, which means it doesn't get in the way when teeth start to emerge.
5. Safe and proven materials
Herobility's pacifier is free from BPA and other harmful substances. The teat is made of medical silicone.
Looking for a pacifier for a newborn? See our wide range here.