Question 1

how do i stop the pacifier?

Accepted Answer

Take Time & think: Some kids don't seem to value a pacifer & won't miss it if its gone.Others are variably attached & parents need to be creative & end use in stages. First stop use of the mouth as a pocket by putting it on a clip & ribbon (no necklace).It can be close without being in.Extract it at play time to get more verbal responses.Sudden loss at a specified age is traumatic & sets up trust issues.

Question 2

when to give a baby pacifier?

Accepted Answer

No rules: There has been much arguing over the years about pacifiers.  In the end, though, there are no rules.  When you say baby, i assume that you really mean a baby, under a year of age.  
My rule:  if you baby likes sucking on a pacifier, its fine.  Eventually, you need to get rid of the pacifier, but that is something to do in the second year of life.

Question 3

what are the pros and cons of pacifiers?

Accepted Answer

Few if any cons: In general infants are pacified by sucking and a pacifier can really help infants that are calmed by sucking, in my experience pacifiers rarely interfere with breast feeding and since they can easily be removed when needed are preferable to sucking on fingers/thumbs.

Question 4

how often should we change baby's pacifier?

Accepted Answer

See  below: You only need to change it if it looks worn or it is damaged.

Question 5

when can i start giving my baby a pacifier?

Accepted Answer

1 month: You can start a pacifier once breastfeeding is established and going well.  The american academy of pediatrics recommends starting no earlier than 1 month of age and using pacifier only for sleep and naps.

Question 6

what do i need to know about pacifier safety?

Accepted Answer

Single piece is best: If you decide to use a pacifier get the single piece silicone versions. This way they can't break in half and create a choking hazard. If the material tears replace it. Keep them clean.

Question 7

how long is it okay for a child to have a pacifier?

Accepted Answer

Under one year: You don't want your baby to develop an emotional need for the pacifier that may make it difficult for them to give it up later.  Kids who need a pacifier by the time they are in preschool were not given the opportunity to pacifiy themselves by some other means when they were babies.

Question 8

is it normal to chew on a pacifier until around 10?

Accepted Answer

No.: This is far to old to use a pacifier. The reasons for this are out of my field of practice but you should start by talking to your family physician.

Question 9

what is the best way to clean bottles and pacifiers?

Accepted Answer

Soap and water: Clean first with soap and water.  I recommend that for the first three month bottles and nipples should be sterilized either in the dishwasher or put in boiling water for 5 minutes.

Question 10

what are the safety concerns associated with pacifiers?

Accepted Answer

Don't tie it on: Pacifiers can be very effective and safe soothers for babies. Follow these simple safety precautions if you decide to use one: make sure the pacifier is one solid piece, the shield should be at least 1.5 inches across and have ventilation holes, never tie the pacifier to your baby's crib or around her neck, and inspect/replace frequently. Bpa has not been found in latex or silicone pacifiers.

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Doctor answers about:

Soothie pacifier

A member asked:

How do i stop the pacifier?

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When to give a baby pacifier?

A member asked:

What are the pros and cons of pacifiers?

A member asked:

How often should we change baby's pacifier?

A member asked:

When can i start giving my baby a pacifier?

A member asked:

What do i need to know about pacifier safety?

A member asked:

How long is it okay for a child to have a pacifier?

A member asked:

Is it normal to chew on a pacifier until around 10?

A member asked:

What is the best way to clean bottles and pacifiers?

A member asked:

What are the safety concerns associated with pacifiers?

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