Having your baby use a pacifier is a great way to help sooth your baby and help him or her fall asleep. When I was a new parent to twins, I learned it’s not always straight forward to understand when and how to introduce a pacifier.
In this article we will be discussing that, plus reviewing some commonly asked questions new parents have about pacifier use. The goal is help make pacifier introduction and use as straight forward as possible.
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When Should You Introduce a Pacifier to a Baby?
You can introduce a pacifier at any age starting from birth. However, if you do plan to breastfeed, it is best to wait until your baby is at least a few weeks old.
This is because babies develop a nipple preference, so there are chances that your baby will prefer a pacifier nipple and have a hard time breastfeeding. It is important to ensure that both baby and mom have adjusted to a nursing routine before introducing a pacifier.
How To Introduce a Pacifier to a Baby
Here’s a step-by-step guide to introducing a pacifier to a baby.
Step 1: Choose the Right Pacifier
Pick a pacifier that is appropriate for your baby’s age and size, and be open to trying different shapes if your baby doesn’t like the first one. To help, here is a guide that goes over the pacifiers my three babies liked best.
Step 2: Choose a Calm Moment
Introduce the pacifier when your baby is calm, such as after feeding or during a quiet, content moment. Avoid offering the pacifier when your baby is very hungry or upset, as this could lead to rejection.
Step 3: Gently Offer the Pacifier
Hold the pacifier close to your baby’s mouth and let them decide if they want to take it. Rub it gently on their lips to encourage them to open their mouth.
Step 4: Give a Little Support
Once your baby starts sucking on the pacifier, gently hold it in place for a few seconds. This can help them get used to the sensation of sucking on the pacifier. You can also try gently pulling on it so your baby has to suck harder to keep it in their mouth.
Step 5: Make It a Comfort Tool
Offer the pacifier at naptime, bedtime, or during times when your baby might need extra soothing.
Step 7: Be Consistent
If you decide to make the pacifier part of your routine, offer it consistently at similar times each day, like before naps or bedtime. A predictable routine can help your baby feel secure and comfortable with using the pacifier.
How To Help your Baby Accept a Pacifier If They’re Not Interested
If your baby isn’t taking to a pacifier right away, don’t worry. This is a common problem and the tips below offer are a few ways to encourage them.
- Try Different Pacifiers: You might need to test out various pacifier shapes and sizes, as babies have different preferences. Some prefer orthodontic-shaped nipples, while others like round or bulb-shaped ones.
- Dip in Breastmilk or Formula: This offers a familiar taste and comfort and can help encourage your baby to start sucking.
- Don’t Force It: If your baby rejects the pacifier, try again later. Forcing a pacifier can lead to frustration. If they’re not interested, let it go and try again at another time.
- Try During Feeding Time: After a feed, when your baby is drowsy and content, switch out your breast or bottle for the pacifier. This can help them associate the pacifier with the soothing feeling they get after feeding.
- Be Patient and Flexible: Some babies take to pacifiers more easily than others.
I recommend trying to introduce a pacifier over the course of 3 days, using the tips above. If after this time, your baby is still rejecting the pacifier, maybe it’s just not for them. Just remember, it’s very important to try a variety of pacifier types. Every baby is different, and while some babies eventually accept a pacifier, others may never take to it—and that’s perfectly fine too.
Baby Pacifier Use FAQs
Once your baby has accepted a pacifier, you will probably encounter more questions like how safe it is to use in specific situations and when it’s time to wean from the pacifier. Below I am answering some frequently asked questions about pacifier use.
Can You Give a Breastfed Baby a Pacifier?
As you probably determined above, yes you can give a breastfed baby a pacifier. But as mentioned, wait a few weeks until your baby settles down into a feeding routine. Moreover, it’s best to choose a pacifier that has soft and natural-shaped nipples designed for breastfed babies, such as the NUK Comfy orthodontic pacifier.
How Many Pacifiers Do You Need?
I actually have a super detailed post all about how many pacifiers you need during the first year. So, you can definitely check that out for all the details. But the general answer to this question is it’s a good idea to have 4-8 pacifiers on hand at any one time.
Is It Safe for my Baby To Use a Pacifier While Sleeping?
Yes, using a pacifier while sleeping is safe and can even reduce the risk of SIDS. To ensure safety, always use a pacifier without clips, cords, or attachments to prevent choking or strangulation risks.
If the pacifier falls out during sleep, there’s no need to reinsert it, as your baby doesn’t need it to stay asleep. Ensure the pacifier is clean and in good condition. You might want to consider choosing a one-piece design to prevent it from coming apart.
Can Pacifiers Suppress Hunger?
Babies who use a pacifier should still consume a normal amount of milk. Pacifiers DO NOT suppress hunger. However, pacifiers may mask hunger cues. As a result, you may have difficulty understanding when your baby needs a pacifier or is hungry.
Should I Sterilize a Pacifier Before Using It?
Sterilizing a pacifier before using it is absolutely necessary – especially for newborns. Your baby will be sucking on it, so you need to ensure that it doesn’t have germs to prevent your baby from becoming sick. You can use a sterilizer or boil it in water for at least 5 minutes.
Can Using a Pacifier Impact my Baby’s Teeth or Jaw Development?
Prolonged pacifier use, especially past age two or three, can impact a baby’s teeth and jaw development. Extended use can lead to issues like misalignment, an open bite, or changes in the roof of the mouth.
However, limited use during the first year typically doesn’t cause harm, and if the pacifier is stopped by around age two, any dental effects are often reversible. To minimize risks, choose an orthodontic pacifier, which is designed to support natural jaw and tooth development. Consult your pediatric dentist for advice if you’re concerned about prolonged pacifier use.
Can a Baby Use a Pacifier Too Much? How Often Should It Be Used?
Yes, a baby can use a pacifier too much. Frequent, constant use may interfere with feeding cues, speech development, and could lead to dental issues if used for extended periods as they grow.
Ideally, limit pacifier use to times when it’s needed for soothing, such as during naps, bedtime, or moments of distress. This is what we did in our household and it made pacifier weaning go smoother too.
When & How Should a Baby Wean Off a Pacifier?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends weaning children from pacifiers by the age of 18 months. To learn how to wean from the pacifier, I have this article that will provide you some simple methods for removing a pacifier from a toddler.
Now that you know when and how to introduce a pacifier, is it time to take action?
After reading this, I hope you feel more comfortable about when and how to introduce a pacifier to your baby. Personally, I found pacifiers to be huge lifesavers when I was having a hard time getting my babies to calm down and for help getting them to fall asleep.
Finally before you sign off, you might be interested in these baby printables to help with establishing schedules and staying organized during the first year with your baby. Good luck!
