The Pacifier Debate – To Pacify Or Not To Pacify

There is a long ongoing debate about the merits and demerits of using a pacifier for your baby. It is going to cause a lot of psychological problems for the child later in life.

pacifierIs it a sort of dereliction of parental duty in some form or fashion? On the one hand Sigmund Freud’s interpretation of pacifier use is enough to horrify, on the other hand we know that a large majority of us grew up just fine on it! So, practically speaking, should you or should you not use the pacifier?

  • The pacifier can in fact pacify and soothe a baby. It may offer some distraction for a crying baby.
  • It can satisfy the sucking reflex that babies are born with and may prevent thumb sucking.
  • They may help a baby fall asleep and could even reduce SIDS risk.
  • They are disposable and a habit easier to break that thumb sucking.

On the other hand there may be some practical problems:

  • It may interfere with breastfeeding if offered before breastfeeding is established
  • The baby may feel bereft without the pacifier and may come to rely on it
  • Pacifiers could raise risk of middle ear infection as well as dental problems such as buck teeth.

Source: MayoClinic

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