Pros and Cons of Pacifier for Newborn

In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of using pacifiers for newborns. By the end of it, you will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to introduce a pacifier into your child’s life.

Pros and Cons of Pacifier for Newborn

First let’s take a look at the pros of using pacifiers:

Pros of Using Pacifiers

1. It Can Soothe a Fussy Infant

A pacifier can be a soothing tool for a fussy infant. If your baby is crying and nothing else seems to be calming them down, a pacifier may do the trick. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), sucking on a pacifier can help relieve some of the pain that newborns experience, such as from gas or colic.

2. It May Help Reduce the Risk of SIDS

It is also believe that pacifier use may help reduce the risk of SIDS. Studies have found that babies who use pacifiers are less likely to die from SIDS than those who do not. While the exact mechanism is not known, it is thought that the pacifier may help keep a baby’s airways open.

3. It Can Help Babies Sleep Better

Babies who use pacifiers tend to sleep better than those who do not. This may be due to the fact that a pacifier can help soothe a fussy baby and promote relaxation. It can also help babies get to sleep and stay asleep for longer periods of time.

4. It Acts As a Temporary Distraction

A pacifier can act as a temporary distraction for a baby who is teething or experiencing discomfort. This can provide some relief for both the baby and the parent. Babies need to be distracted for different things and pacifiers can be the perfect item for that.

5. They Can Ease the Discomfort for Kids When They Are On Long Trip

Pacifiers can also be helpful for kids when they are on long car rides or airplane trips. The sucking motion can help ease the discomfort that many kids feel when their ears pop. This can make for a more pleasant experience for both the child and the parent.

6. They Provide Pain Relief

Sucking on a pacifier can also provide pain relief for babies who are undergoing certain medical procedures. For example, if your baby is getting their mouth or gums checked, sucking on a pacifier can help ease the pain.

Cons of Using Pacifiers

Now let’s take a look at the cons of using pacifiers:

1. Pacifiers Can Cause Dental Problems

One of the biggest concerns about pacifier use is that it can cause dental problems. If a baby sucks on a pacifier for an extended period of time, their teeth may become misaligned or they may develop cavities.

2. They Can Cause Speech Problems

Another concern with pacifier use is that it can cause speech problems. Some experts believe that prolonged use of pacifiers can cause a child to have difficulty pronouncing certain words.

3. They Can Increase the Risk of Ear Infections

Pacifier use has also been linked to an increased risk of ear infections. This is thought to be due to the fact that pacifiers can block the auditory tube, which can lead to fluid buildup in the ears.

4. They Can Be Difficult to Wean Off of

Once a baby becomes attached to their pacifier, it can be difficult to wean them off of it. Some babies may become agitated or cry when they are not allowed to use their pacifier. This can make the process of weaning them off of it more difficult.

5. Pacifiers Can Have a Lot of Bacteria on Them If They Are Not Stored or Cleaned Properly

If a pacifier is not stored or cleaned properly, it can collect bacteria. This can cause an infant to develop an infection or other health problems. It can be the cause of some serious problems.

6. Use of Pacifiers Can Cause Colic

Colic is a condition that can be caused by the use of pacifiers. It is characterized by excessive crying and gas. Some experts believe that the sucking motion of a pacifier can cause a baby to swallow air, which can lead to colic.

7. Babies May Get Too Dependent On Pacifiers

Some experts also believe that babies can get too dependent on pacifiers. If a baby relies on a pacifier to soothe them, they may not be able to calm down or relax without it. This can be difficult for parents when they are trying to wean their child off of the pacifier.

8. It Can Cause Unhealthy Weight Gain

If a baby sucks on a pacifier for an extended period of time, they may consume more calories than they need. This can lead to unhealthy weight gain.

As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using pacifiers. It is up to each individual parent to decide whether or not they want to use them. If you do choose to use a pacifier, make sure that you are using one that is safe and clean. You should also be prepared for the possibility of dental problems, speech delays, and other issues that can arise from pacifier use.