Pacifiers

[Froggy Jen]

Ok, so I've read that it's not recommended to use pacifiers in the beginning due to confusion. But, they have released a new study saying pacifiers help against SIDS. So, if I want to use a pacifier what is the best kind for breastfed babies?

[Melanie]

I have always used the Avent pacifiers.

[justrose]

i used NUK brand.

[annalauren]

I used nuk too, never had a problem with confusion.

[Harmony]

The hospitals give out the Gumdrops (http://www.gumdroppacifier.com/GumDrop-Pacifier-s/3.htm), which are supposedly the best ones to use with breastfeeding. I just didn't use them for fear of confusion.

[miche]

The (relatively) new policy on pacifier use is confusing a lot of people. The AAP's recommendation is to not use pacifiers until after the first month when breastfeeding is well established.

The risk of SIDS is quite low the first month of life, and breastfeeding also offers protection from SIDS.

I tried to find the exact wording and came across a few articles mentioning how pacifiers don't cause nipple confusion and impact breastfeeding rates. However, the studies also showed that use of pacifiers can shorten the length of breastfeeding. The one study I just read said that it was probably due to desire to wean earlier. Based on my experience I would disagree. Too often I see my clients using pacifiers to delay a breastfeeding. The same moms later report that their milk supply is low and they don't understand why. Pacifiers can mask the early signs of hunger so mom doesn't feed her baby as frequently. Frequent feedings is especially important in the first several weeks postpartum as regular emptying of breasts and stimulation are key to establishing a good milk supply.

As for what kind of pacifier, generally a round nipple that isn't too long is what is best for a breastfeeding baby both with bottle nipples and pacifiers.

[fuzzy]

I totally agree with Miche. Even though there are studies that say pacifiers don't affect breastfeeding rates, I have seen the effects both at work (I'm an OB nurse), with moms using pacifiers, and with my own dd, in terms of nipple confusion. When my dd was about a week old, I was hitting the postpartum blues period pretty solidly, and was exhausted. In an effort to get just a little bit of sleep, I pumped and had dh do one feeding for me. The next day, I had to work like crazy to get dd to open her mouth wide enough to latch on correctly. It really shocked me that it happened that quickly! So, we waited several weeks before trying the bottle again, and she was just fine from then on. So, I would suggest getting through that first month, then introducing the pacifier, as suggested already. Good luck! :)

[Froggy Jen]

I'm am really appreciating all the info. It's weird to feel like a pro in many aspects as this is #4 but this is my 1st time really attempting to breastfeed so this is all new to me. I've read up a lot but some stuff contradicts other stuff.

[miche]

I've read up a lot but some stuff contradicts other stuff.


It does, doesn't it?

Try sticking to good sources like anything from Dr. Jack Neumann (see the Storknet Breastfeeding cubby for a lot of those articles) and websites like La Leche League, Kellymom and Breastfeeding.com. You can even look at breast pump and breastfeeding supply companies such as Ameda/Hollister and Hygeia. Those are all going to have accurate information. Other websites that offer general parenting info don't always have the best breastfeeding advice and articles. If you see a formula add on the website close the window and back away. ;)