A pacifier can help your baby soothe himself, go to sleep and even help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, suggests the Mayo Clinic. When you're ready to introduce a pacifier to your baby, remember that while sucking is a comforting and reflexive motion, a change in texture while doing so may not be welcome. Introduce the pacifier slowly, and wait for the right time to ensure that he is ready to try a pacifier and that it won't interrupt any of your established feeding practices.
Step 1
Wait until breast-feeding patterns have been established before your get your baby to use a pacifier. Using a pacifier can make babies nurse less, which can interrupt your supply. If breast-feeding, don't offer a pacifier until after the first month of breast-feeding has been established. If your baby is bottle-fed, you can introduce a pacifier as soon as your pediatrician recommends.
Step 2
Choose the right pacifier for the job. Your baby may prefer the same type of pacifier that she used in the hospital, or she may like a flat, nipple-shaped one instead. The only way to know which pacifier your child will like the best is through trial and error. Luckily, they are relatively inexpensive to purchase, and you can try a few different shapes or materials before finding the one that your baby prefers the most, notes parenting website Storknet.com.
Step 3
Wait until your baby is calm and sleepy to introduce the pacifier. If you try to do it when he is unhappy, hungry or crying, he'll associate the pacifier with those bad feelings and may reject it. After a feeding, when he's satisfied and happy, nudge the pacifier near his mouth. Most babies will reflexively take the pacifier and start sucking on it. If he doesn't open his mouth, wait a few minutes before trying again.
Step 4
Offer a pacifier dipped in warm formula, water or breast milk if your baby is resistant to the pacifier. This can be a comforting, extra incentive to get your baby to take the pacifier. Never coat the pacifier in sugary syrups or sweetened water; babies do not need sugar in their diets and it could interrupt their feeding, warns Consumer Reports.
Step 5
Avoid offering the pacifier as a way to extend time between feedings. When your baby is hungry, you should offer breast milk or formula. Save the pacifier for times when she needs extra soothing or comfort, like before naps and bedtime, or when she is distressed.
