Pacifiers are often considered a requisite item for a new baby, ranking right up there with diapers and strollers. Using a pacifier to satiate an infant's natural sucking instinct has been the cause of much debate, as there are distinct pros and cons. Ultimately, the American Academy of Pediatrics gives new parents its blessing to use pacifiers if baby absolutely insists.
Advantages
The primary advantage of using a pacifier is that these handy, disposable devices make quick work of quelling a fussy infant in a number of different situations, points out the Mayo Clinic. If your baby is hungry, a pacifier buys you time when you're preparing a bottle or trying to find an appropriate spot to breastfeed. But they're also good distractors whenever your child is undergoing common medical procedures, such as blood tests and shots. A pacifier can also help a fretting infant fall asleep more easily; the American Academy of Family Physicians notes that a pacifier may reduce your child's risk of sudden infant death syndrome when sleeping.
Disadvantages
Pacifiers come with a distinct set of disadvantages, and one is that the infant comes to rely on them. When a pacifier drops out of a sleeping baby's mouth, this can lead to sudden waking and crying. Some children may be less amenable to breastfeeding if they use a pacifier, says the AAFP. Additionally, pacifier use is sometimes linked to medical problems, such as middle ear infections, says the Mayo Clinic. Long-term pacifier use after the first four years of your child's life can cause dental problems--the child's front teeth may jut outward or not come in properly.
When to Use
The AAFP indicates that pacifiers should be given to infants at least 1 month of age who are proficient breastfeeders. They appear to be of the best benefit to infants less than 6 months old--after 2 years of age, pacifier use can result in the increased risks noted above. However, some infants' sucking reflex never needs to be soothed with a pacifier at all, points out the AAP.
How to Use
If you choose to give your child a pacifier, make sure that it's been washed with soap and water, urges the Mayo Clinic. Never put it in your own mouth to "clean" it, as this only spreads germs. If your baby doesn't show an interest in a pacifier, don't force the issue by putting sugar or honey on it or forcing it into your child's mouth, advises the AAFP. The Mayo Clinic also suggests not making the pacifier your "first line of defense" in soothing a fussy infant. Try other calming activities, such as rocking, or if the infant appears to be hungry, give him a bottle or access to your breast instead.
Pacifier-Weaning Your Child
A better question that parents should ask is not how important a pacifier for a baby, but how important it is for their own peace of mind--as well as their peace and quiet. Pacifiers can be of great benefit during the formative stage of your baby's life when feeding and sleeping times are irregular and unpredictable. But the AAFP notes that a pacifier shouldn't be used after your child is 4 years old. Most children's sucking habits stop before they enter school due to peer pressure, says the AAP.
