You just wish they would realise that the soother/pacifier is one of humanity’s inventions that help you through the day?

Pacifier vs. Thumb sucking

Many people judge mothers who choose to let their babies use pacifiers /soothers. Yes, I agree, there can be some cons to using a “dummy”, but what about the risks or cons of thumb sucking? In today’s world technology has advanced far more than what it used to be back in the 70’s and 80’s. The pacifiers we find in the shops today are designed to assist jaw and tooth development, if used correctly, unlike a thumb. So my question is: do the benefits of using a pacifier outweigh the disadvantages? Let us find out…

Advantages of using a Pacifier

According to leading experts, who have done numerous studies, say that there is actually no reason not to use a pacifier if used correctly. Thumb sucking can cause a malformed jaw development as well as malformed teeth which are less likely to happen with a pacifier / soother if used correctly. Using a pacifier can help reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), as it assists the baby into a deep sleep, preventing them from waking themselves. I don’t know about you but that is a BIG advantage in my book… Babies have a natural need to suck even after their delicate bellies are full; thus, a pacifier can assist in satisfying the suck reflex. A pacifier also assists in encouraging a baby to self sooth, which helps when mommy is not around. Pacifiers are also disposable, which makes it easier for parents, giving them more control when it is time to break the habit.  

Disadvantages of using a Pacifier

A Pacifier may increase the risk of middle ear infections. It is said, according to a study, that children who use pacifiers are more at risk to get ear infections than those who do not use pacifiers. Pacifiers can increase the risk of diarrhoea because of germs that the baby can ingest from it. If a pacifier is used too long, it may affect oral growth and jaw formation. Babies can become dependent on their pacifier and get very upset if the pacifier is misplaced or lost.

It’s a mother’s decision.

Please always make sure you sterilise your pacifier before giving it to your baby if your baby is under 6 months, as infants can get infection form dirty pacifiers. Wash soothers every day. “Do not clean pacifiers ‘by rinsing it’ in your own mouth, as you will spread germs to your baby that may cause tooth decay or illness”. Coating pacifiers with sweet substances like honey or sugar can cause tooth decay. We will always hear opinions of other people regarding the use of a pacifier. Looking at advantages and disadvantages of using a pacifier/soother you can decide for yourself whether you would want your baby to use one.

Additional links:

• http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/pacifiers-fact-sheet
• http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/using-pacifiers
• http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/should_you_use_a_dummy.html

Author bio: Annelien Van Schoor loving wife and proud mother of one. Find her here: Twitter @Lienkies84 or Lienkies84@gmail.com

*This article is copyrighted. You are welcome to share it, without altering the contents, giving proper credit to the author and link to this article. Please note Moomie is not a medical website. All information provided here are to be used at your own discretion. Always consult your caregiver for medical advice. {jcomments on}