Could the pacifier be making sleep worse for your baby
The question many parents find themselves asking is, “Is the pacifier making sleep worse for my baby?” It’s a valid concern, so let’s delve into it.
The Role of Pacifiers in Infant Sleep
Pacifiers are often seen as a lifesaver for newborn parents. They beautifully cater to an infant’s innate need to suck, which can indeed aid sleep. However, as babies grow out of the newborn stage, the role of the pacifier might change. It can turn into a sleep association, which is simply something your baby relies on to fall asleep.
What Are Sleep Associations?
In the realm of baby sleep, we talk a lot about sleep associations without labeling them as inherently good or bad. It’s about what works or doesn’t work for you and your baby. Sucking, whether from a breast, bottle, or pacifier, is one of the strongest sleep associations. Using a mountain analogy, sucking would sit at the peak, with pacifiers nestled just slightly below the pinnacle.
When Pacifiers Become a Problem
If you’re finding yourself creeping into your little one’s room multiple times a night to pop the pacifier back in, and it’s becoming a hassle, it might be time to reconsider its use. Transitioning from the pacifier is similar to moving away from feeding your baby to sleep at night, especially if your baby is under 12 months.
Steps to Transition Away from Pacifiers
Maintain Consistency: Begin by maintaining the pacifier at bedtime, but not during night wake-ups.
Offer Alternatives: When your baby wakes at night, offer a feed without allowing them to fall asleep during it. Then, employ other soothing techniques such as rocking, patting, or shushing to help them drift back to sleep.
Be Patient: Understand this transition might take a few nights and might not be met with enthusiasm by your little one. But with patience and consistency, they’ll adapt.
By moving away from relying on the pacifier, you’re gradually helping your baby down the mountain of strong sleep associations. This shift is instrumental in moving towards independent sleep, which becomes less challenging as the associations weaken.
Need More Support?
If this process feels daunting, or if you have further questions, assistance is available. Our team offers feeding assessments as part of the services we provide to help you navigate these developmental stages with ease. Feel free to reach out, or simply put your questions in the comments below.
Understanding the role of pacifiers and knowing when it’s time to transition can make a huge difference in your baby’s sleep patterns and, consequently, your peace of mind.
If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.
You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].
Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP
