Other Reasons to Hit or Skip a Pacifier

While pacifiers can be a helpful option for many kids, they should be avoided if your child is prone to ear infections. “Sucking on a soother can make it difficult to drain the ear tubes,” says Dr. Saunders.

If you’re on the fence about whether or not to introduce a pacifier, you may want to consider new research by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Taking a pacifier at night helps to reduce the risk of SIDS. “While it’s not as significant as sleeping position or avoiding blankets, statistically sucking a soother does help prevent SIDS,” says Dr. Saunders. Even if your baby spits it out as soon as she falls asleep, going to bed with a soother could be a lifesaver.

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