Another reason for this is that sucking on a pacifier might aid in opening up air space around an infant’s mouth and nose, thus ensuring adequate oxygen supply. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests the use of pacifiers for babies below 1 yr of age at naptime and bedtime (preferably after the baby is at least 1 month old).
Helps in relieving pain
Sucking on a pacifier after getting a vaccination can help to relieve pain.
Helps premature babies suck
Premature babies can benefit from sucking on a pacifier in the hospital. Their sucking reflex is developed much and while sucking a pacifier, they learn to suck as no breast milk flows from it and once they are discharged from the hospital, they can breastfeed with much ease.
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At such a time, sucking on a pacifier is the quickest hack to ease ear pain and make the baby calmer.
Disadvantages of using pacifiers
The World Health Organization recommends against pacifier use.
-Step nine of the United Nations Children’s Fund/World Health Organization “Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative: Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” states “give no artificial teats or pacifiers (also called dummies or soothers) to breastfeeding infants”. This advice is widely disseminated by health care professionals and laypersons alike.
Here’s why:
Problems with breastfeeding
Sucking a breast differs from sucking a pacifier or feeder bottle and some babies might be receptive to these differences. There are researches both supporting and disregarding the fact that pacifier use leads to reduced breastfeeding. Nevertheless, it is advised that pacifier should be used to calm a baby only when she has got the hang of breastfeeding and has grown in weight.
Can cause dental
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If the problem still lingers, give her a pacifier. Avoid putting the pacifier back in her mouth once she has fallen asleep.
#4. Keep the pacifier clean
Opt for a pacifier that doesn’t contain additional decorations or attachments as they might fall off and pose a hazard to the baby. Thoroughly clean the pacifier with warm water and store in a dry place when not in use. Avoid cleaning the pacifier by putting it in your mouth as the bacteria might get transferred. Also, avoid cleaning the pacifier in sugar solution as it might lead to cavities. It is advised to opt for a pacifier which is BPA (bisphenol-A) free.
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#5. Don't tie a pacifier
Make sure you do not tie the pacifier around the baby’s neck or to a crib as the baby might strangle himself to death. Attach the pacifier to his clothes with a clip specified for the same.
#6. Don’t give a pacifier to an underweight baby
If your child has problems with nursing and gaining weight, then steer clear of a pacifier as it might not help calm your baby. Also avoid the use of a pacifier if your baby has frequent ear infections.
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