Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » When can I give my breastfed newborn a pacifier?

When can I give my breastfed newborn a pacifier?

When to Introduce a Pacifier to Your Breastfed Newborn
Introducing a pacifier to a breastfed newborn is a topic that often stirs debate among new parents and healthcare professionals alike. While pacifiers can provide comfort and help soothe babies, timing is crucial, especially for breastfeeding mothers.
Establishing Breastfeeding First
The general consensus among experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), is that parents should wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing a pacifier. This typically means waiting about three to six weeks after birth. During this period, both mother and baby are adjusting to the breastfeeding routine, and it’s essential to ensure that the baby is latching correctly and that the mother’s milk supply is stable.
The rationale behind this recommendation is straightforward: introducing a pacifier too early can interfere with the breastfeeding process. Babies have a natural instinct to suck, and if they become accustomed to a pacifier before mastering breastfeeding, they may develop a preference for the pacifier over the breast. This can lead to issues such as decreased milk intake and potential challenges in establishing a consistent feeding routine.
Timing and Growth Spurts
Another important consideration is the timing of introducing a pacifier in relation to your baby’s growth spurts. Many experts suggest waiting until after the six-week growth spurt, which is a time when babies often feed more frequently and may be more fussy. Introducing a pacifier during this period could complicate the breastfeeding process, as the baby may be less inclined to nurse effectively.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Pacifier Use
While pacifiers can be beneficial—such as helping to soothe a fussy baby or potentially reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) during sleep—they also come with drawbacks. For instance, prolonged pacifier use can lead to dental issues as the child grows. Additionally, there is a concern that reliance on a pacifier might hinder the development of self-soothing skills.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are breastfeeding, it is generally advisable to wait until your baby is about three to six weeks old and breastfeeding is well established before introducing a pacifier. This approach helps ensure that breastfeeding remains the primary source of nutrition and comfort for your newborn, while still allowing for the soothing benefits that a pacifier can provide later on. As always, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

How soon after feeding can I give a pacifier?

It’s generally recommended to wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing a pacifier to a baby, which usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks after birth. This waiting period helps to avoid potential nipple confusion and ensures that the baby is feeding effectively.

How much colostrum is in day 2?

Day two after birth
Your baby receives approximately one teaspoon of colostrum per feed. Your baby is likely to be more wakeful and may want to feed more frequently until your milk comes in on day three or four. This is normal newborn behaviour.

Can I give my breastfed newborn a pacifier?

Yes! If you’re breastfeeding, you can still offer your baby a pacifier. If you’re concerned about the potential of nipple confusion with pacifier use, I have good news for you! Research shows us that nursing moms who introduce a pacifier are just as successful with nursing as those who don’t.

Which is an acceptable time to introduce a pacifier to a breastfeeding infant?

If you choose to offer your newborn a pacifier, you can give it to them any time if they’re bottle-fed. But if you’re planning to breastfeed, it’s best to wait until they’re 3 to 4 weeks old to allow breastfeeding to become established first.

Is it OK to let my newborn sleep with a pacifier?

The answer is yes. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), pacifiers can not only help sooth your baby, but research has also proven a pacifier can help with reducing Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID).

When did you introduce a pacifier to a breastfed baby?

The exact time to offer a pacifier varies but is usually between 2 to 6 weeks. If your baby is nursing regularly, seeming satisfied after feedings, peeing frequently, pooping at least three times a day, and gaining weight, breastfeeding is likely going well.

Can a newborn use a pacifier right away?

In a nutshell, Tanya Altmann, MD, a pediatrician, spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics, says you should give your newborn a pacifier between two and six weeks, once breastfeeding is established, as they may not take to it if you wait too long.

Can I give my 2 day old a pacifier?

Newborns can start using pacifiers as early as 1 month old, particularly if breastfeeding is established. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends waiting until breastfeeding is well established (around 3 to 4 weeks) to avoid potential nipple confusion.

Can a 2 week old sleep with a pacifier?

While bottle-fed babies can sleep with a pacifier from birth, breastfed infants should only sleep with a pacifier once they are at least 3 to 4 weeks old and have settled into a breastfeeding routine with no latching issues.

What kind of pacifier is best for breastfed babies?

The round nipple is the one health professionals (5) (in Denmark) recommend when breastfeeding your baby. This is because the round nipple makes the baby roll its tongue around the pacifier just as it does during breastfeeding.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment