Is baby pacifier actually useful or not? Here are the pros and cons

Until now, the use of baby pacifiers is still a topic of conversation among parents. Parents have long been divided on this point. There are those who are relaxed, some are anti-inflammatory, so they reprimand other parents for being a pacifier. Actually, is it necessary or not to use a pacifier in baby development? This is the full explanation.

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Is it necessary to use a pacifier in babies?

Quoted from the Mayo Clinic, generally babies have a fairly strong sucking reflex. Not only does it help add nutrition, it also has a calming effect.

Therefore, some parents make baby pacifiers as one of the necessities for newborns.

Alias ​​pacifiers pacifier is a baby pacifier that does not contain milk or any liquid. Its function is only so that the baby has something to suck in his mouth.

American Family Physician recommends that parents who want to give a pacifier to children over one month of age to reduce the risk of sudden death.

The thing to remember is that every child has their own character. Of course, you as a parent know what is best for your child.

If you have consulted with your doctor, you can determine in what situations your child needs to use a pacifier.

Benefits of using a pacifier in babies

Here are some of the benefits of pacifiers for children that you need to know, such as:

1. Reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Using a pacifier while a child sleeps during the day or at night can prevent sudden death syndrome or SIDS.

In addition, using a pacifier is believed to reduce the likelihood of your child rolling over to the prone position, maintaining the respiratory system, and reducing the risk of developing GERD.

2. Satisfies the reflex to suck

Babies have a natural desire to suck. Therefore, when drinking milk or bottle feeding can fulfill his wishes.

However, sometimes the desire to suckle persists even though the baby is full.

One way to overcome this is by giving baby pacifiers. The thing parents need to pay attention to is that this does not replace lunch time.

3. Help baby calm down

A baby's pacifier or pacifier can have a calming effect and prevent anxiety.

It can be said that using a pacifier can help him control his feelings and make him feel safe.

Not only that, because some babies feel happy when they suck on something, the pacifier can also calm them down when they are fussy.

You can also use it to help your baby fall asleep faster.

Lack of baby pacifiers

Not only the benefits, there are also disadvantages of baby pacifiers that parents can take into account. Here are things you also need to pay attention to, such as:

1. Experiencing nipple confusion

Breastfeeding is a natural process and some babies need time to get used to the mother's nipples.

However, there is also the condition of nipple confusion in babies who have difficulty sucking milk.

One of the causes of this breastfeeding problem is when the child is used to using pacifiers and pacifiers.

Therefore, avoid using a pacifier until the child is completely familiar with the pattern of breastfeeding directly from the breast.

2. Have an ear infection

Quoted from the Mayo Clinic, the use of baby pacifiers can increase the risk of middle ear infections or what is known as otitis media.

This occurs because germs or bacteria in the nasal cavity can rise up to the Eustachian tube and enter the ear.

3. Problems with teeth

Some parents worry that using a baby's pacifier or pacifier can affect the growth of their child's teeth.

In fact, using a pacifier in a normal period of time generally does not cause long-term dental problems.

However, using a pacifier for a long time (more than 2 years) can cause the child's teeth to become misaligned.

Teething problems usually resolve on their own within 6 months of stopping pacifier use before 2 years of age.

Tips for using a pacifier in babies

If you are planning to give your baby a pacifier or pacifier, follow these guidelines:

• Use a pacifier brand that is free of bisphenol-A (BPA).
• Do not attach straps to the pacifier, as this creates the risk of choking the child.
• Use the right size. Adjust the baby's age so that the teat fits the mouth.
• If during sleep the pacifier comes off, you should not put it back on.
• Avoid sharing pacifiers with other children to avoid spreading the bacteria.
• Clean the used pacifier with special soap and hot water to keep it sterile.
• Choose a pacifier with a special hole for air to enter.
• Avoid sweetened soothers, as they can damage your child's teeth.

When to stop using a pacifier?

It could be argued that the use of a pacifier in babies is safe if you adjust it to their needs.

The thing to remember is to wait until the child gets used to the nipples and stop using the pacifier until the teeth begin to come out.

The reason is, getting older, the risk is greater than the benefits.

If possible, stop using a pacifier after the baby is 6 months of age until the maximum age is 1 year.

This is a time when the risk of SIDS decreases and the likelihood of ear infections increases.

If you want to help your child slowly, try to limit the use of a pacifier, such as napping or sleeping at night.

When the child becomes more difficult to remove the pacifier, you can consult a doctor.

While trying to stop your child from using the pacifier, try to distract him with interesting activities or toys.

Not only do you distract yourself with interesting activities or objects, you also understand that it's time to stop using a pacifier.