Pacifier recommendations

Can you use a pacifier and have a successful breastfeeding journey? Absolutely.

However, as a lactation consultant, I do have a few recommendations when using a pacifier:

  • If possible, I do like to recommend waiting to introduce a pacifier until breastfeeding is established and going well, typically after or around 2 weeks postpartum

  • When using a pacifier, it is important to make sure you are not missing feeds or feeding cues. If it’s nearing time for the next feeding and baby is going to town on the pacifier, consider offering the breast or bottle!

    • some important feeding cues to watch for: hands to mouth, opening mouth, sticking out tongue, moving head side to side

  • Just like with bottle nipples, the shape of the pacifier is important for proper oral development and a smooth transition between breast and pacifier!

Pacifier brands I recommend:

Important note: you do not need to introduce a pacifier if you don’t want to! And it’s ok if your baby doesn’t like pacifiers! They are not a requirement!

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Hannah Cano RN, CLC

Hello! My name is Hannah and I have been supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journeys as a postpartum nurse for over 7 years. After experiencing a challenging breastfeeding journey with my first child, I was inspired to obtain my Lactation Certification. I created this website and the Instagram account @your.breast_friend to spread evidence based education and support to breastfeeding mamas, no matter what their breastfeeding journey looks like. I hope that I can positively impact your breastfeeding journey!

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