Pacifiers- good or bad?

This is a question I get a lot. Is a pacifier good or bad? When is it okay to use one? Why would it be a bad idea? So, let’s dive in.

There are many reasons not to use a pacifier, and only a few to use one. On the positive side, it can give a breastfeeding parent a break from feeding (though there are other ways to do this). There is also talk it might help with sleep, but that isn’t proven.

Now the reasons not to use a pacifier are many. It can decrease breastfeeding by hiding cues, stopping baby from being at the breast when their suck reflex is strong. It can become the only way to soothe and if you lose it you are in trouble.

However, the most important reason to NOT use a pacifier is the tongue. Oral rest posture is very important. When we aren’t talking or eating our tongue should rest on the top of the mouth, on the palate. This uses the 8 muscles of the tongue to shape the palate, to be wider and flatter, and smooth, A wide palate shape gives lots of room in the nasal airwary for oxygen! And oxygen is always good. When a pacifier is in baby’s mouth it pushes the tongue low and flat, making the palate pacifier shaped, which is not good for the airway!

So if you don’t use a pacifier, what do you do? How do you calm a baby or get them to sleep? Well the short answer is what baby wants is YOU. Baby wants to be held, to be safe and loved. Your baby just wants you. Now that isn’t always easy. When you are tired, need to cook or clean, or just have a break, it can be tough. There are many ways to help- baby wearing, asking for help, decreasing demands on you and more. Bottom line is your baby wants you, not a pacifier.

Life isn’t perfect, so if you are using a pacifier here is what I recommend- first get a good shape (round not flattened), and limit the time baby has it in. Never let baby sleep for more than a few minutes with a pacifier in, once they fall asleep take it out. Wean off by 2-4 months. And if you have questions, reach out!!