Pacifiers are very popular accessories for many babies, newborns or infants. They have a calming effect because sucking calms the baby and makes him feel secure .
But what is the sucking reflex that all babies develop?
SUMMARY :
- Where does the sucking reflex come from?
- What type of pacifier for my baby?
- Introduce a pacifier to help your child wean
- Reduce the risk of SIDS with a pacifier for your baby
- 5 tips to know for optimal use of your pacifier
- In summary
Where does the sucking reflex come from?
The sucking reflex, in reality, does not really develop. It is present from intrauterine life, from the 14th week of gestation. We can also see babies sucking their thumb or their umbilical cord on ultrasound images. It is an innate and automatic reflex.
Origins of the sucking reflex
Studies have shown that the sucking reflex has a genetic basis. The sucking reflex is controlled by the brainstem, a primitive part of the brain that is responsible for vital functions. The intrauterine environment also plays a role in the development of the sucking reflex.
Objectives of the sucking reflex
The sucking reflex allows the newborn to suck intuitively and feed himself as soon as he comes into the world. But this gesture has a dual purpose, it allows the baby to soothe himself and helps him fall asleep or relax, especially in the case of colic or pain related to teething.
Sucking has also been found to stimulate the development of the jaw and facial muscles.
When does the sucking reflex disappear?
The sucking reflex disappears naturally between 4 and 6 months.
However, it is not uncommon for some children to continue sucking on their thumb or a pacifier until a later age. In this case, we speak of non-nutritive sucking , which describes the act of “sucking” on something other than food or the mother's breast.
What type of pacifier for my baby?
Sucking on a pacifier helps satisfy the sucking reflex and provides a sense of comfort and satisfaction to the baby.
To meet your child's need for sucking with a pacifier, you are spoiled for choice! Pacifiers come in different models and materials, such as:
- Silicone ,
- Latex
- Or natural rubber.
Please note that physiological pacifiers , such as the ChooChoo Élhée pacifier , particularly respect the shape of the baby's mouth and palate to promote optimal sucking while limiting the risk of dental gaps .
Today, standards require European brands to manufacture pacifiers that are strictly BPA-free . It is best to opt for a medical silicone pacifier, free of endocrine disruptors and 100% hygienic, thanks to a one-piece design.
We recommend that you choose an extra-thin pacifier for everyday use, which respects your child's teeth and protects against the risk of gaps . On the other hand, we advise against using pacifiers with a sweet taste that is supposed to attract your baby. The discovery of sugar will happen soon enough. 😉
🚨Be careful, dipping the pacifier in a sugary liquid to make it easier to hold is not recommended because it promotes sugar addiction and the risk of cavities in young children.
Introduce a pacifier to help your child wean
Pacifiers are also considered very useful during weaning , as a replacement for breastfeeding or bottle feeding. They help babies gradually reduce their dependence on the breast or bottle.
Reduce the risk of SIDS with a pacifier for your baby
Studies have also shown that using a pacifier may reduce the risk of SIDS (=sudden infant death syndrome) by keeping the baby's tongue in an anterior position, which can prevent airway obstruction.
5 tips to know for optimal use of your pacifier
- Choose a pacifier that is appropriate for your baby's age.
- Do not force your baby to take a pacifier.
- Do not attach the pacifier to your baby's bed or clothing. However, the pacifier can be attached to them using a pacifier clip that complies with standards. The pacifier clip is not recommended during naps or at night.
- Do not dip the pacifier in sugar or a sweet liquid (honey, for example, is prohibited for children under 3 years old) in order to limit sugar addiction and prevent cavities in young children.
- Clean the pacifier regularly with an organic, fragrance-free cleaning product , then rinse thoroughly with clean water without using detergent.
- Change teats regularly, at the first signs of wear or deterioration.
In summary
Pacifiers are very popular accessories for babies because of the soothing effect they provide. They respond to a sucking reflex present from intrauterine life, and essential for the development of your infant.
