Pros & Cons of Offering a Pacifier

When you make a purchase through retailer links on my site, I may earn commission through affiliate programs.

Pacifiers are one of the most debated newborn items. Some parents swear by them… others avoid them completely. And if you’re expecting or newly postpartum, you’re probably wondering whether you should introduce one to your baby.

The good news? Pacifiers can be incredibly helpful when used thoughtfully. Here’s everything you need to know: the benefits, the drawbacks, and how to decide what’s right for your family.

🌟 The Pros of Offering a Pacifier

1. They soothe and satisfy your newborn’s need to suck

Babies are born with a very strong sucking reflex, and for many, pacifiers provide instant comfort.

They help:

• Calm fussiness

• Ease overstimulation

• Soothe during car rides or diaper changes

Some babies love them. Some don’t. But for the ones who do, it can be a game changer.

2. Pacifiers can reduce the risk of SIDS

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that offering a pacifier at naps and bedtime is associated with a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

It’s not fully understood why, but researchers believe pacifiers:

• Help maintain airway positioning

• Prevent deep sleep from becoming too deep

• Encourage self-soothing

You don’t have to reinsert it if it falls out—just offering it initially is enough.

3. They’re helpful for naps, bedtime, and transitions

Pacifiers can smooth out tough moments like:

• Witching hour fussiness

• Soothing after vaccines

• Riding in the car

• Adjusting to a new sleep space

Think of them as a gentle tool—not a crutch.

⚠️ The Cons of Using a Pacifier

1. Possible nipple confusion (if introduced too early)

If you’re breastfeeding, the AAP recommends waiting until feeding is well established (usually around 3–4 weeks) before introducing a pacifier.
Some babies can switch between pacifier and breast with no issues; others struggle.

Every baby is different—watch your newborn’s cues.

2. Pacifier dependence

Some babies become reliant on the pacifier to fall asleep.

This means more nighttime wakeups when it falls out (especially between 4–7 months).

If you use one, be prepared for a little extra support until your baby can replace it themselves.

3. Increased ear infection risk after 6 months

Prolonged pacifier use has been linked to a higher risk of middle ear infections, especially past 6–12 months.

Most experts recommend beginning pacifier weaning sometime in the second half of the first year.

🍼 How to Introduce a Pacifier

If you decide to offer one, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose a one-piece pacifier (safer, easier to clean).

• Wash or sterilize regularly.

• Offer at naps and bedtime once feeding is established.

🔄 Popular Pacifier Options

Parents (and orthodontists) often love:

• Philips Avent Soothie (hospital favorite; great for newborns)

• BIBS Supreme Pacifiers (lightweight, aesthetic, easy for babies to hold)

• NUK Orthodontic Pacifiers (great for breastfed babies)

Trying a couple of styles is normal—babies have preferences too!

💛 Final Thoughts: Should You Offer a Pacifier?

There’s no right or wrong answer—just what works best for your baby and your feeding journey.

Pacifiers can be incredibly helpful for soothing, sleep, and reducing SIDS risk. But they can also create dependency, interfere with feeding if introduced too early, or simply not work for your little one.

Your job isn’t to follow a rule—it’s to make thoughtful choices based on your baby’s needs and your family’s comfort.

Whatever you choose, you’re doing great!