ARTICLE SUMMARY :
- How to recognize a physiological teat?
- Why choose a physiological teat?
- What should I do if my baby refuses the physiological teat?
- How to choose the right size of physiological teat for your baby's age?
The physiological teat for your baby reproduces a more natural sucking action during feeds, thanks to its innovative shape. Here are our tips to help you make the right choice of pacifier for your child.
How to recognize a physiological teat?
The physiological teat, as opposed to the anatomical teat, is easily recognized by its asymmetrical shape. With its modern look, revisited with the inside of babies' mouths in mind, it features a domed face that rests against the child's palate, and a second, flat face that allows the tongue to rest on it. The concept is actually relatively recent, and is proving very popular with young parents.
The different types of physiological teats
- The rubber teat
Physiological rubber teats are known for their softness and suppleness. On the other hand, it is destined to be destroyed more quickly, due to its greater fragility. Rubber material can have a slight odor, especially when first used. It is easily recognized by its brown, slightly transparent color. Washing is exclusively by hand, as rubber teats are not dishwasher-safe.
- Silicone teats
The physiological silicone teat is more resistant and completely transparent. It is also stiffer and less soft than its rubber counterpart. They are easy to clean by hand and can be put in the dishwasher, although this option is not universally appreciated by young parents, as greasy deposits have been observed on the inside of teats after washing.
- Medical-grade silicone teats
The medical-grade silicone physiological teat is extremely soft and gentle. Its huge advantage is that it's completely free of substances that are harmful to your child. Guaranteed phthalate- and BPS/BPA-free, this patented innovation respects your child's health. It's easy to clean, preferably by hand, and offers great comfort during baby's feedings.
Why choose a physiological teat?
A pacifier to meet a wide range of needs
There's a reason why the physiological teat is so popular. Physiological teats are the answer to many of the problems parents point to, such as the gap between baby's teeth caused by conventional or anatomical teats, more commonly known as "happy teeth". Babies are also less likely to suffer from gastric refluxwhich can be very painful.
A more natural teat shape
Thanks to its aesthetic shape, developed by pediatric and obstetric researchers, the physiological teat reproduces a much more natural sucking action, just like baby's breastfeeding. The shape is designed to be as close as possible to breastfeeding conditions.
Medical-grade silicone: a pathogen-free teat
Elhée's medical-grade physiological silicone teats are guaranteed free from substances harmful to your baby. They take care of your baby's health and prevent the absorption of carcinogenic substances.
What should I do if my baby refuses the physiological teat?
Occasionally, your baby may reject the pacifier you offer him. In this case, there are several steps you can take:
1. Check that the flow rate is suitable for your baby
Nipple flow rates adapt to babies' sucking rhythm. Slow, Medium or Fast flow... For premature, breast-fed, mixed-feeding or infant milk babies. Make sure the nipple flow rate is adapted to your baby. Each child is unique and has his or her own preferences, so flow rates are given as a guide only. Perhaps the flow rate is a little too slow or too fast, in which case you should try a different flow rate to suit your child.
2. Change brand
Sometimes, the brand of physiological teat you've chosen simply isn't right for your baby. Some babies test up to several brands before finding the one that really suits them. Have you considered opting for a medical-grade silicone physiological teat?
3. Eliminate other possible sources of frustration
Are you sure your child isn't reluctant to take the pacifier for reasons other than those mentioned above? Perhaps he's not hungry enough yet. Is his diaper clean? Is he too hot? Is he suffering from a fever or a toothache? Take the time to assess all the angles of the situation before incriminating the pacifier too quickly.
4. Offer the breast and consult
If, after all these checks, your baby doesn't deign to take an interest in the pacifier you're handing him, that's okay! Take a break, even if it means shifting feeding time slightly, and repeat the operation half an hour later. If your baby's obstinacy proves categorical the next time, and you have the opportunity to breastfeed directly, this may prove to be a lifesaver. If necessary, consult a health or childcare professional.
How to choose the right size of physiological teat for your baby's age?
Like all teats, the physiological teat adapts to your child's age. As your child grows, his sucking force develops. This evolution requires adapting the flow rate of the teat.
- Slow flow teat: Its low flow rate is suitable for breastfed or premature babies, as well as newborns for whom a medium flow rate is a little too fast.
- Medium-flow teat: This teat has a slightly faster flow rate and can be used from birth for babies fed infant milk (not breastfed).
- The fast-flow teat: designed to let thicker liquids through, such as thickened milks, soups, light porridges or for babies with a sweet tooth.
Physiological pacifiers have become increasingly popular with families in recent years.
Its innovative concept brings together different types of physiological teats, each with its own aesthetic differences, advantages and disadvantages.
The medical-grade silicone teat from Élhée provides a quality teat without any substances harmful to your baby's health.
