When should you introduce a pacifier and a bottle?
Updated: Feb 23
One of the primary concerns that parents have after delivery and breastfeeding is when and if they should start using a pacifier.
They are also usually concerned that if they don't give a bottle early enough, their baby may not take it. Or what happens if they start a bottle and their baby prefers it over the breast?
Depending on who you ask, pacifiers are either a savior or the devil—as with all parenting topics, educating yourself about when and if you want to use one is essential.
We recommend waiting three weeks before introducing a pacifier to ensure breastfeeding is well established. Try feeding your baby or other soothing measures first if your baby is fussy. It is more challenging to see feeding cues and know when your baby is hungry when using a pacifier. There is also some evidence of higher rates of ear infections and oral thrush when using a pacifier.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that there may be a lower rate of S.I.D.S. or S.U.I.D. When using a pacifier for nap or sleep time, but also recommends waiting until after breastfeeding is established at around 3-4 weeks.
