A pacifier can help soothe a fussy baby...but is that a good idea?
Modern looking pacifiers were first introduced in the US during the 1900's as a means of comfort. Mimicking the breast, but also providing mothers "relief" from clingy babies, they became extremely popular and even adopted several nicknames. Binky, paci, soother, and dummy were all common. Other commonalities, however, included breastfeeding and oral development issues.
Giving a pacifier to a whiny or fussy baby can create a missed opportunity to meet a vital need.
Expecting and planning to breastfeed? Get a quick run-down of The First 48 and everything you need to know in the first minutes, hours, and days to jumpstart your breastfeeding journey immediately after birth.
Issues with Pacifier Use
Pacifiers can often cause setbacks when it comes to breastfeeding. There are a few things to take into consideration when deciding whether or not to introduce them to your little one.
Missing Critical Cues Imagine your baby is whiny because they're thirsty and you give a pacifier instead of latching. You miss a critical chance to hydrate your baby. Now imagine your baby is developing a cold and becomes extremely whiny and fussy. You aren't aware of the impending illness and just think your baby is tired so give a pacifier to soothe. You have now missed an opportunity to allow your baby to tell your body it needs to create antibodies to fight that sickness. Giving a pacifier to a whiny or fussy baby can create a missed opportunity to meet a vital need.
Latch and Nipple Confusion Some of the most common breastfeeding issues related to pacifier (and bottle) use are with latch and nipple confusion. Introducing a pacifier before baby has had adequate time to master their latch can cause laziness at the breast. This is turn can lead to cracked and bleeding nipples as baby doesn't open wide enough for a proper, deep latch. It can also cause nipple confusion (does your nipple look or feel anything like a pacifier or bottle nipple?) and a stressful nursing experience. This can also create a preference for pacifier/bottle and lead the baby to reject the breast all-together.
Given the issues pacifier use can cause, it's best (in my opinion) to just avoid them completely if possible. They were literally made to mimic breast nipples so it seems as though we can live without them. Again, this is my personal opinion. You can read more pros and cons from What to Expect and decide what's best for you and your baby.
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