A STORY OF ADDICTION: PACIFIER USE

Every human baby is born with a sucking reflex. In addition to the mother's breast, she sucks her finger and even her fist-shaped hand. Babies' natural urge to suck has a relaxing and calming effect for them other than feeding.

Stating that breastfeeding meets the need for confidence in babies, experts state that care should be taken in the use of pacifiers. Pediatricians do not have a clear opinion on the use of pacifiers, there are pros and cons. The use of pacifiers is entirely your decision. A pacifier started early may prevent the baby from sucking breast milk. In addition, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is a fact that the pacifier given during sleep prevents Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Breastfeeding is different from sucking a pacifier or bottle. If a pacifier is given in the first weeks of his birth, he may have trouble sucking on his mother's breast. Experts recommend not giving a pacifier until your milk is at a sufficient level and you have a good grasp of the sucking.

When can you start breastfeeding?:

If your baby is whining between two feedings, even though he is full, and you feel that he wants to suck, you can start using a pacifier. This will relax him and satisfy his need for sucking.

Choosing the Right Pacifier:

Choosing the right pacifier is an important issue. Research shows that the best pacifier is flat, thin, long, and soft enough to bend and twist. When you start to suck the pacifier, the wide surface that comes into contact with the oral cavity when you take it reduces the pressure on the palate to a minimum. Thus, you can reduce the side effects of long-term use.

How can you save your baby from being a pacifier addiction?:

One of the most disturbing issues for mothers is that the pacifier turns into an addiction. It is possible to prevent this with some applications.

Do not give a pacifier every time she cries, so you create an environment to withstand her problems without a pacifier.

From the first months, you can reduce the use of pacifiers and prevent them from becoming addicted.

You can make some changes and deformities on the pacifier, so you can prevent the baby from enjoying sucking as much as before.

Shorten the pacifier use time as much as possible. During that time, direct his attention to other things he enjoys (he can sing and give a food he likes)

Regular sleep and regular feeding will reduce the need for pacifiers.