Does pacifier affect breastfeeding？
Pacifier is a product that simulates the shape of a nipple and can meet the physical and psychological needs of children. In this article, we'll explore the oft-debated question: "Do pacifier affect breastfeeding?" Explore the benefits of pacifiers, potential effects on breastfeeding, how to choose the right pacifier for your baby, and when to start and stop using them Pacifiers and safety precautions to keep your baby healthy.
The benefits of pacifiers:
1. Soothing effect: Pacifiers can quickly soothe babies, reduce crying and anxiety, provide babies with a sense of calm, and help them relax and self-soothe.
2. Self-soothing: Babies often self-soothe by sucking. Pacifiers provide a suitable way for babies to self-soothe when their mother is not able to provide constant comfort. Pacifiers can help babies learn to self-soothe and regulate their emotions.
3. Helps sleep: Some studies have shown that the use of pacifiers can help babies fall asleep and reduce the number of awakenings at night, which is of great help to parents and babies.
4. Reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Research shows that using a pacifier during sleep can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It is believed that the sucking action keeps your baby's airway open and reduces the chance of suffocation.
Potential effects of pacifier use on breastfeeding
1. Reduce milk production: If the pacifier is used frequently, the baby may not suck enough, causing the mother's breasts to become unsuitable for the baby's needs, and may even affect the milk supply.
2. Delayed breastfeeding: Dependence on the pacifier will interfere with the baby's ability to develop a strong breastfeeding reflex and establish good breastfeeding habits. Because they have been soothed, they no longer have an urgent need to suck breast milk. In the long term, this can lead to delayed and potentially difficult breastfeeding.
3. Sleep disorders: The use of a pacifier may make it difficult for the baby to fall asleep without the pacifier, and parents will spend more energy to comfort the baby.
How to choose a pacifier？
1. Material: It is best to choose food-grade silicone pacifier. Silicone pacifiers are BPA Free, non-toxic, contain no harmful substances, are durable and easy to clean, and can be cleaned and disinfected through a variety of methods. Very safe and suitable for babies.
2. Size and shape: Choose a pacifier that's appropriate for your baby's age and mouth size. It should be comfortable and fit securely in their mouth.
3. Features: Look for a pacifier that is orthodontically designed and supports normal oral development. These pacifiers are designed to minimize any negative impact on your baby's teeth and jaw alignment.
When to start and stop using pacifiers？
Health organizations, the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend delaying pacifier use until breastfeeding is mature. Usually around 3 to 4 weeks. This allows your baby to develop good breastfeeding habits.
Typically, babies will gradually wean themselves off the pacifier around one year of age. Moms can also tell by looking for signs of their baby's diminished interest in suckling, increased independence, and ability to soothe themselves in other ways.
Safety precautions when using a pacifier
1. Use with caution: Use caution when using a pacifier to make sure your baby really needs comfort and don't rely too much on the pacifier.
2. Delayed use: Make sure your baby develops good breastfeeding habits before using a pacifier. to avoid potential impacts.
3. Regular cleaning and inspection: Clean and disinfect the pacifier regularly, and inspect the pacifier for signs of damage or wear. Replace if necessary to prevent suffocation hazard.
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in conclusion
Pacifiers can provide comfort and soothing to babies, but they should be chosen and used carefully, following the precautions when using pacifiers to avoid potential effects.
