Should you use a pacifier when breastfeeding?

The Pacifier Debate: To Use or Not to Use While Breastfeeding
The question of whether to use a pacifier while breastfeeding is one that many new parents grapple with. The topic is layered with both practical considerations and emotional nuances, as parents seek to balance their baby’s needs with their own.
Understanding the Concerns
Historically, there has been a significant amount of debate surrounding pacifier use among breastfeeding infants. Many health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have recommended avoiding artificial teats, including pacifiers, during the early weeks of breastfeeding. This recommendation stems from concerns that early pacifier use might interfere with establishing a strong breastfeeding routine. The WHO’s guidelines emphasize that avoiding pacifiers can help ensure that breastfeeding is initiated and maintained effectively, particularly in the crucial first few weeks after birth.
However, recent studies and expert opinions have begun to shift this perspective. Research indicates that pacifier use does not necessarily hinder breastfeeding success. In fact, some studies suggest that pacifiers can be beneficial for both mothers and infants, providing comfort and helping to soothe babies. This duality in findings has led to a more nuanced understanding of pacifier use in the context of breastfeeding.
Timing is Key
Experts generally recommend that if parents choose to introduce a pacifier, it should be done after breastfeeding has been well established. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests waiting about three to four weeks before introducing a pacifier to ensure that breastfeeding habits are firmly in place. This waiting period allows mothers to build a solid breastfeeding routine without the potential distraction of a pacifier.
The Benefits of Pacifiers
For many parents, pacifiers can serve as a valuable tool. They can provide a means of comfort for infants, helping to soothe them during fussy periods. Additionally, pacifiers can offer breastfeeding mothers a much-needed break, allowing them to manage their own fatigue and stress levels. The emotional relief that comes from knowing a pacifier can help calm a baby can be significant, especially for new parents navigating the challenges of early parenthood.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the decision to use a pacifier while breastfeeding is a personal one, influenced by individual circumstances and preferences. While some health guidelines advocate for caution, the evolving understanding of pacifier use suggests that they can coexist with breastfeeding without detrimental effects, provided they are introduced at the right time. Parents should feel empowered to make choices that best suit their family’s needs, free from guilt or pressure. As with many aspects of parenting, finding the right balance is key.

Do babies naturally learn to self soothe?

Babies typically learn to self-soothe at around 4 – 5 months old. It’s important to remember that self-soothing is a developmental skill. Like all development, it is a process of building on skills to form new skills.

When should I use a pacifier while breastfeeding?

For babies that are breastfeeding only, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting to give your baby a pacifier until breastfeeding is well established. This can take up to 4 to 6 weeks. It is normal for babies to need to suck, especially in their first weeks.

How do I get the perfect latch while breastfeeding?

Steps to a Good Latch
Aim your nipple just above your baby’s top lip. Make sure your baby’s chin isn’t tucked into their chest. Aim your baby’s lower lip away from the base of your nipple. Baby’s lips should be turned outward like a fish.

Why don t breastfed babies like pacifiers?

Babies can be comforted by using their sucking reflex. However, pediatricians and lactation consultants agree it’s best to wait until breastfeeding is well-established before offering your baby a pacifier. As your infant learns to breastfeed, a pacifier may confuse them since it requires a different sucking action.

Can a pacifier improve latch?

Pacifiers will not help with the nursing latch, because it is a different type of latch altogether. The Le Leche League may be able to help you if you need it. My children all needed to be taught to latch. When the baby roots, you’ll have to grasp the nipple and quickly press it into the child’s mouth.

How long does it take to establish breastfeeding?

At what age do babies get more efficient at breastfeeding? As your baby grows and develops, they will naturally become more efficient at breastfeeding. After six weeks, babies will typically become more settled in between feeds and they may seem to fall into a more predictable natural routine.

How can I soothe my breastfed baby without a pacifier?

Pat or stroke their forehead, tummy, or head. Play a noise machine to offer a soothing reminder of the muffled noises they heard in the womb. Put your baby down at the first signs of drowsiness, before they get overtired. Sing lullabies or play soft music for your baby.

When and when not to use a pacifier?

“The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends parents stop pacifier use by 18 months old to prevent short-term damage to baby teeth and by 3 years old to prevent permanent damage. They believe that non-nutritive sucking after this point might result in long-term damage to a child’s permanent teeth.

Can pacifier cause nursing strike?

The results showed that playfulness and distraction (50%), recent vaccinations (48.6%), and the use of pacifiers (37.1%) were the most common infant-related factors contributing to the nursing strike.

Can I give my 3 day old a pacifier?

Pacifier use might disrupt breast-feeding.
If you’re breast-feeding, you might wait to offer a pacifier until your baby is 3 to 4 weeks old and you’ve settled into a nursing routine.