Pacifiers are accessories very appreciated by many babies , newborns or infants. They have a soothing effect because the suction calms the baby and reassures him.
But actually, 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 make weaning your child easier
- 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 baby sucking his thumb or his 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.
Goals of the sucking reflex
The sucking reflex allows the newborn to suck intuitively and to feed itself as soon as it comes into the world. But this gesture has a double objective, it allows the baby to calm down alone and to help him fall asleep or relax, particularly in the event of colic or pain linked 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.
For some children, however, it is not uncommon to suck on their thumb or a pacifier until an older age. In this case, we speak of non-nutritive sucking , which describes the act of “touching” something other than food or your mother's breast.
What type of pacifier for my baby?
Sucking a pacifier helps satisfy the sucking reflex and provides a feeling 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.
Some are physiological , that is to say they 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 preferable to opt for a medical silicone pacifier, free of endocrine disruptors and 100% hygienic, with a one-piece design.
We recommend that you choose an extra-fine pacifier every day, which respects your child's teeth and protects against the risk of gaping . On the other hand, we do not recommend the use of 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 the pacifier is not recommended because it promotes sugar addiction and the risk of cavities in young children.
Introduce a pacifier to make weaning your child easier
Pacifiers are also considered very useful during weaning , replacing breastfeeding or bottle feeding. They help baby gradually reduce his dependence on the mother's breast or bottle.
Reduce the risk of SIDS with a pacifier for your baby
Studies have also shown that using a pacifier will 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 suitable for your baby's age.
- Don't force your baby to take a pacifier.
- Do not attach the pacifier to your baby's bed or clothes. The pacifier can, however, be connected to the latter using a pacifier attachment device 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 is, for example, prohibited for children under 3 years old) in order to limit sugar addiction and avoid cavities in young children.
- Clean the pacifier regularly with an organic, fragrance-free cleaning product then rinse for a long time with clean water without using detergent.
- Change pacifiers regularly, at the first signs of wear or deterioration.
In summary
Pacifiers are very popular accessories for babies because of the calming effect they provide. They respond to a sucking reflex present from intrauterine life, and essential to the development of your infant.
