Pacifiers are very popular accessories among many babies, newborns, or infants. They have a soothing effect because sucking calms and reassures babies.
But actually, what is the sucking reflex that all babies develop?
CONTENTS:
- Where does the sucking reflex come from?
- What type of pacifier for my baby?
- Introducing a pacifier to ease your child’s weaning
- Reducing the risk of SIDS with a pacifier for your baby
- 5 tips to know for optimal pacifier use
- In summary
Where does the sucking reflex come from?
The sucking reflex, in reality, does not truly develop. It is present from intrauterine life, from the 14th week of gestation. You can even see babies sucking their thumb or umbilical cord on ultrasound images. It is an innate and automatic reflex.
Origins of the sucking reflex
Studies have shown that the sucking reflex is based on genetics. The sucking reflex is controlled by the brainstem, a primitive part of the brain 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 instinctively suck and feed from birth. But this action has a dual purpose: it helps the baby to self-soothe and assists with falling asleep or relaxing, particularly in cases of colic or pain related to teething.
It has also been observed that sucking stimulates jaw and facial muscle development.
When does the sucking reflex disappear?
The sucking reflex naturally disappears between 4 and 6 months.
However, with some children, it is not uncommon for them to suck their thumb or a pacifier until a more advanced age. In this case, it is called non-nutritive sucking, which refers to sucking on something other than food or the mother’s breast.
What type of pacifier for my baby?
Sucking on a pacifier satisfies the sucking reflex and provides babies with comfort and satisfaction.
To meet your child’s need for sucking with a pacifier, you are spoilt for choice! Pacifiers come in various designs and materials, such as:
- Silicone,
- Latex
- Or natural rubber.
Note that physiological pacifiers, such as the ChooChoo Élhée pacifier, are especially designed to respect the shape of the baby's mouth and palate to encourage optimal sucking while limiting the risk of open bite.
Nowadays, regulations require European brands to manufacture strictly BPA-free pacifiers. It’s best to choose a medical-grade silicone nipple, free of endocrine disruptors and 100% hygienic, thanks to its one-piece design.
We recommend choosing an extra-thin pacifier for everyday use, one that respects your child’s dental development and protects against open bite. On the other hand, we advise against using pacifiers with a sweet flavor meant to attract your baby. Discovering sugar will come soon enough. 😉
🚨Warning: Dipping the pacifier in a sweet liquid to encourage your baby to take it is not recommended as it promotes sugar addiction and increases the risk of cavities in young children.
Introducing a pacifier to ease your child’s weaning
Pacifiers are also considered very helpful during weaning, as a replacement for breastfeeding or a bottle. They help babies gradually reduce their dependence on the breast or bottle.
Reducing 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 a forward position, which can prevent airway obstruction.
5 tips to know for optimal pacifier use
- Choose a pacifier suitable for your baby's age.
- Do not force your baby to take a pacifier.
- Do not attach the pacifier to the crib or your baby’s clothing. However, the pacifier can be connected to these using a pacifier clip that meets standards. The pacifier clip is not recommended during naps or nighttime.
- Do not dip the pacifier in sugar or a sweet liquid (honey, for example, is forbidden for children under 3 years) to avoid sugar addiction and prevent cavities in young children.
- Clean the pacifier regularly with a biological, fragrance-free cleaning product and then rinse thoroughly with clear water without using detergent.
- Change pacifiers regularly at the first sign of wear or deterioration.
In summary
Pacifiers are very popular with babies due to the soothing effect they provide. They respond to a sucking reflex present from intrauterine life, which is essential for your infant’s development.
