Pacifier For Infants: Benefits, Risks, And What To Use Instead

We've all been there—we just gave birth, we're sleepless, and our baby is fussy. We get tempted to look for the pacifier that a friend gifted us during the baby shower, but we've read articles and heard our pediatrician that pacifier may not be the best idea to calm a fussy baby. Struggling to wean them off is the price to pay for the temporary distraction it provides. So will you give in?

There's no shame in using pacifiers for infants. While some pediatricians are against them, others say they're fine if they're not used for too long to avoid dental issues. Researchers found that pacifier use does not interfere with breastfeeding as long as it's delayed until the latch has been established, while other studies also show that pacifier use can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

What experts say about pacifier use in infants

In a previous Smart Parenting article, a pediatric dentist explained when using a pacifier is okay, "[It] is acceptable for those babies who need to satisfy their sucking reflex," says Dr. Carina De Los Reyes, former president of the Philippine Pediatric Dental Society, Inc. (PPDSI).

However, she still recommends limiting the length of time your baby uses it to avoid dental problems, including malocclusion or misalignment of teeth. Experts suggest that children should stop using pacifiers by the age of 4.

Parents' opinions on pacifiers

Parents in the Smart Parenting Village Facebook group have mixed opinions on pacifiers. While some say they are life-savers, others have never used one and share what works for them instead.

One mom shared, "We used a pacifier to prevent my son from overfeeding. May mga baby na malakas ang need to self-soothe. Gagamit lang siya after dumede pampatulog, hindi buong araw, kaya in a way, nakatulong sa routine namin. Consider it as last resort, kung hindi naman talaga kailangan, huwag na."

Another mom said, "I had to use one para masanay si baby mag-suck kasi hirap siya mag-direct latch sa akin and sa feeding bottle. Hindi recommended ng pediatrician, but I had to be resourceful. Three months lang niya nagamit, si baby mismo ang umayaw."

Some parents didn't find the need for a pacifier at all, "I was so tempted but pedia said no kasi it can be a source of bacteria. But it will depend on the mom. For some, it works for them, for others, it doesn't."

Here are some pacifiers Smart Parenting Village parents recommend:

1. Raz Baby Keep-It-Kleen Pacifier: It closes when dropped to keep the nipple clean. Available on Shopee and Lazada.

2. Philips AVENT Soothie Pacifier: Made from medical-grade silicone, it comfortably fits the natural curves of baby’s face. Available on Shopee and Lazada.

3. Nuk Silicone Soother: It features the improved orthodontic nipple shape. Available on Shopee and Lazada.

Continue reading on Smart Parenting Village here.

Pacifier alternatives for infants

If you're hesitant about using a pacifier, here are some alternatives to try:

1. Breastfeeding

Many moms turn to pacifiers because they worry about overfeeding their babies. However, babies suck not just for hunger but also for comfort. Offering the breast can work just as well. It's also important to check if they're going through a growth spurt, which would naturally increase their feeding times. That said, moms returning to work or planning to stop breastfeeding may find pacifiers helpful.

Buy Lansinoh Nipple Cream for sore and cracked nipples on Lazada

2. Soft teething toys

Babies tend to put everything in their mouths. Offering a clean, soft teething toy can sometimes do the trick. If they're teething and feeling uncomfortable, chewing on a teething toy may be better than sucking on a pacifier. Just make sure to clean the toy regularly—some can be washed, while others should only be wiped with a clean cloth.

Buy Bright Starts Snuggle & Teethe Soothing Plush Teether on Lazada

3. Soft blanket or lovey

A friend likely gifted you a soft blanket or lovey during your baby shower. Offering these to your baby as a comfort item instead of a pacifier can help reduce the need to suck. Be sure to remove any tags or potential choking hazards before giving it to your child, and never leave your child unattended with a blanket. 

Check out this Miss Rachel lovey here.

4. Swaddling

Some babies wake up easily due to noise or sudden movement, and many parents turn to pacifiers to help them sleep longer. However, experts suggest swaddling can help keep babies asleep without needing a pacifier. Learning proper swaddling techniques can lead to better sleep for both babies and parents. Experts also recommend to discontinue swaddling after two months.

Buy HALO SleepSack Multi-Way Swaddle on Lazada

5. Checking what the baby needs

A fussy baby is often trying to communicate something. Before offering a pacifier, check if the baby's diaper is wet, if it's too hot or too cold, or if it's time for a nap. Sometimes, they just need to be carried for warmth or taken to a different environment for distraction. Some parents give pacifiers when all their baby's needs are met simply to allow the baby to self-soothe.

6. Playing music and rock the baby

When all else fails, sometimes all a fussy baby needs is their parent's warmth and cuddles. Singing a lullaby or playing soft music or white noise while gently rocking them can be more comforting than a pacifier. It takes patience, but they will eventually calm down. If nothing works, check if your baby is unwell and may need a pediatrician's attention.

Final thoughts

Every child is different, and whether a pacifier works for them or not, the key is to use it responsibly to prevent negative effects as they grow. If a pacifier helps you and your baby, there's no shame in using one. We're all figuring out parenthood together, and there's no one way to do it.

Read why celebrity mom Kryz Uy regrets avoiding a pacifier for Scottie here.