Sucking is an innate relaxation response for babies, offering immediate stress relief and activating their Parasympathetic Nervous System—often referred to as the "rest and digest" state. This soothing action not only lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone, but also enhances digestive functions. When a baby uses a pacifier, it increases blood flow, promotes saliva secretion necessary for breaking down milk, and aids in the release of beneficial hormones. Additionally, the calming effect of sucking slows the heart rate, conserving energy and aiding in nutrient absorption and weight gain.
Beyond their soothing effects, pacifiers are recommended by pediatricians for pain relief. Science backs up that pacifiers, in addition to sucrose, are highly effective. This natural sucking reflex is not only calming but also distracts from the pain, offering comfort and reducing distress.
Pacifiers go in your baby’s mouth more than anything else, and right from day one. You
have the right to know what goes into that product and how it is tested. When the bottom
line comes before your baby’s safety, that is a business you don’t want to do business with. Use the following guidelines to find the best pacifier for your baby.
3 Must-Haves When Choosing a Pacifier
Hypoallergenic Materials:
Choosing a pacifier that is latex-free and hypoallergenic is crucial. This consideration is especially important for sensitive babies and for parents looking for safe and gentle options. Latex is being marketed as “natural rubber”. Latex is an allergen that increased exposure means increased risk. Latex is also less sanitary than silicone, it grows more bacteria and yeast and many say they cannot even be boiled to be cleaned. It breaks down quickly from saliva, UV exposure and heat, imposing more of a choking risk from breakage. Latex is the orange/brown color we see trending. Many chemicals are added to the natural latex itself to stabilize it... making it not natural anymore.
Manufacturing Standards:
A pacifier made under strict safety regulations offers peace of mind. Knowing that a product is domestically produced under fair labor practices can reassure you about its quality and the ethics behind its production. Pacifiers in the U.S. are only mandated to be tested once per year, so select a brand with higher safety standards that put your baby above profit.
Ease of Cleaning:
With the hectic life of parenting, finding a pacifier that is easy to clean and can withstand frequent sterilization without degrading is a blessing. This helps maintain hygiene without adding to your workload. Closed type pacifiers cannot be cleaned fully, and not all pacifiers are dishwasher safe.
3 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pacifier:
Proper Latch that Mirrors Feeding:
The right pacifier should replicate a natural feeding experience to promote optimal oral development and ensure comfort mimicking the feeding journey. Many pacifier shapes don’t work the proper orofacial muscles. The shapes displayed above are the best-performing shapes for quality non-nutritive suck. Providing an appropriate variety is important for oral development.
The cylindrical shape is the top-performing for suck pattern and the shape hospitals give.
The orthodontic shape is the second best performing for suck pattern, and some babies can only use this one over others due to oral restriction (ties).
The nursing shape mimics the wider deeper latch of a nursing baby, whereas the other two have a more straw-like/narrow suck. The wider deeper latch of this shape is the best for long-term oral development and helping to strengthen oro-facial muscles.
Eco-Friendliness and Non-Toxicity:
As we become more environmentally conscious, finding products that are both safe for our children and the planet is increasingly important. Choosing pacifiers made from high-quality, plastic-free, and non-toxic materials not only supports your baby’s health but also contributes to a sustainable future.
Safety Features:
Safety is non-negotiable. Opting for a pacifier that meets rigorous safety standards, with components that prevent choking hazards, should be a top priority for any
parent.
Choosing a pacifier is more than a temporary fix for a crying baby; it’s about embracing a tool that supports both emotional stability and physiological health. The benefits of pacifiers are immense. As every parent navigates their unique journey, understanding these benefits can help in making an informed decision about whether to introduce a pacifier to their child's routine. Remember, the choice to use a pacifier is personal and should align with your parenting style and your baby’s needs.
About the Author:
Lindsay deOliveira, CBC
Founder - Soothe Beginnings
My goal as the mom behind Soothe Beginnings is to help new parents. With what, exactly? The information I wish I knew as a first time mom. I was the mom up in the middle of the night unsure what to do next, and falling for gimmicks that I later learned weren’t ideal or even safe. I’m on a mission to bring you safe products, convenience and education.
While each of the factors mentioned above plays a crucial role in choosing the right pacifier, finding a brand that addresses all these concerns can be challenging. At Soothe Beginnings, we’ve taken these diverse needs into account to craft a pacifier that stands out in the market. Our products are designed with your baby’s health and development in mind, offering a hypoallergenic, easy-to-clean, environmentally friendly option that adheres to the highest safety standards. Each pacifier is meticulously tested and produced in the USA, ensuring quality and trustworthiness- because I’m a mom before I am a CEO. Choosing the perfect pacifier involves balancing many factors, which is why Soothe Beginnings aims to simplify this decision by meeting all these critical needs in one
product. Trust us to provide the best for your child, making every soothing moment as safe and loving as it should be.
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