Breastfeeding and a Pacifier: Use It or No?
To use a pacifier or not to use a pacifier?
This might be one of the most common questions I get from new moms who are exclusively breastfeeding.
Honestly, there isn't a clear answer. I think this should be a choice that is left up to you.
Pacifiers do have benefits, especially if your baby is born prematurely. I can tell you why I chose to use a pacifier and how it didn't interfere with my breastfeeding success.
Why I Chose to Use a Pacifier
Since my daughter was born prematurely, she used a pacifier during her short stay in the NICU. The staff asked me if it was okay for her to have one, and these are the reasons I said yes.
- I wanted her to have a way to comfort and soothe herself when I couldn't be at her bedside. I didn't want her crying.
- Sucking on a pacifier allows babies to practice non-nutritive sucking, which can support the development of feeding skills, especially in premature infants.
What About Nipple Confusion?
I hear you! What about nipple confusion?
Nipple confusion isn't necessarily about the texture of the nipple. Sometimes, it's more about milk flow.
Nipple confusion is commonly discussed in relation to bottle feeding rather than pacifier use. When milk flows faster from a bottle, some babies may begin to prefer the bottle because getting milk requires less effort than breastfeeding. They are very smart!
The important thing to consider when using a pacifier while breastfeeding is not to offer the pacifier instead of feeding.
A pacifier can mask hunger cues, especially early on. Breastfeeding frequently is essential to establishing and maintaining your milk supply.
When I Used a Pacifier
At some point during the first few days, your baby will start cluster feeding? or breastfeeding a lot! This is common and helps stimulate your milk supply.
However, if your nipples are sore and you need a break, this is a times when a pacifier can be useful. Occasional pacifier use doesn't mean breastfeeding will be unsuccessful.
After we got home, I offered my daughter a pacifier at times when I couldn't breastfeed, like during car or stroller rides.
Other than that, she wasn't really interested in using one at all. She wanted the real thing!
So, Should You Use a Pacifier While Breastfeeding?
My answer is simple. It's your choice!
Every baby is different, and every breastfeeding journey is different.
For me, breastfeeding was never about following a strict set of rules. It was about learning my baby, adapting to her needs, and using all the tools available to make our experience successful.
A pacifier was simply one of those tools.
If you decide to introduce a pacifier, pay attention to your baby's feeding cues, continue offering the breast frequently, and remember that a pacifier should never replace a feeding.
The Pacifier I Used
The pacifier I personally used with my daughter was the Ninni Co. pacifier.
If you're considering trying it, you can receive 10% off your purchase using my code NurtureWorks.*
Shop Ninni Co. using my affiliate link.
At the end of the day, breastfeeding doesn't have to be all or nothing. Find what works for you and your baby, and give yourself room to adapt along the way.
