Advantages and disadvantages of using a pacifier when breastfeeding
There are conflicting statements about giving a pacifier to a newborn. There are considerable opinions in approving and rejecting this work, but in the end, it is a personal decision. Every child responds differently and depends on their specific needs and abilities. Some babies eat pacifiers without any problems, but some may have problems.
Premature babies and babies with colic who love to suck enjoy eating pacifiers. However, pacifiers can be a problem for newborns, sleepy babies, and stubborn babies. Using a pacifier can also keep your milk supply at a high level, as the baby will eat the pacifier instead.
Parents know their baby better. They should consider all aspects of deciding whether or not to give their baby a pacifier. You can discuss your decision with your doctor and get help from him.
Pros of using a pacifier
Using a pacifier helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
The pacifier helps relieve the discomfort caused by reflux or colic.
Premature babies who eat a pacifier reach a normal weight faster.
• Eat a pacifier in situations of stress-inducing and painful it can be relaxing.
Many babies eat pacifiers even when they are not hungry. Pacifiers can reduce their appetite.
Disadvantages of using a pacifier
• Using a pacifier can affect the baby’s performance during feeding. This causes breast problems such as nipple pain and swelling of the breast.
• Using a pacifier can affect the process of milk production in the mother’s body. Because the amount of nursing of the baby is directly related to the production of milk in the mother’s body. Therefore, if you give your baby a pacifier instead of nursing, your milk level will decrease.
Researchers’ studies show that using a pacifier increases the risk of ear infections.
Using a pacifier may speed up the process of weaning the baby.
Sucking a pacifier may cause the baby to drink less milk during the day.
Excessive use of pacifiers can damage baby teeth.
Babies often become overly dependent on their pacifiers. This dependency may cause problems for the baby and parents in the not too distant future.
Recent studies have shown that mothers should not be afraid to use pacifiers for their babies. However, it is recommended to use a pacifier after the baby has become accustomed to breastfeeding and the breast milk level has reached a significant level. This process may take 4 to 8 weeks after delivery. In general, if you decide to use a pacifier, make sure it is safe for the baby.
The safety of the pacifier is of particular importance. Avoid buying multi-piece pacifiers. If the pacifier splits in two while sucking, it may cause the baby to choke.
Clean the baby’s pacifier daily to prevent infectious and microbial diseases. Try to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some pacifiers can be washed in the dishwasher, others can only be washed with warm water and soap.
Never hang the pacifier around the baby’s neck and do not use straps or ribbons to tie the pacifier to the bed. The presence of any cord or string around the baby can cause suffocation. Do not use the milk bottle head as a pacifier. This is not hygienic and may also cause the baby to choke.
Many brands make pacifiers for babies. So try to use a pacifier of the right size. If an older baby eats a newborn pacifier, he or she may suffocate.
Examine the pacifier regularly to make sure there are no signs of corrosion or fracture. Be sure to replace them if they change color, break, or are damaged. When the baby is teething, take him to the dentist for an examination. Talk to your dentist about using a pacifier and ask when you can get a pacifier from your baby.
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