Benefits of Using a Pacifier

Many parents are unsure of whether or not to use a pacifier to soothe their baby. While there are cons, may cause dental problems, and children becoming reliant on them, lets take a look at some of the benefits.

Pacifiers may soothe fussy babies.

Pacifiers offers temporary distraction. A pacifier might come in handy during and after shots, blood tests or other procedures.

Pacifiers might help your baby fall asleep. If your baby has trouble settling down, a pacifier might do the trick.

Pacifiers might help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Sucking on a pacifier at nap time and bedtime might reduce the risk of SIDS. If you’re breast-feeding, wait to offer a pacifier until your baby is 3 to 4 weeks old and you’ve settled into an effective nursing routine.

Pacifiers are disposable. When it’s time to stop using pacifiers, you can throw them away. If your child prefers to suck on his or her thumb or fingers, it might be more difficult to break the habit.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/pacifiers/art-20048140