Routine pacifier use in infants: pros and cons

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Routine pacifier use in infants: pros and cons

Journal Title: Jornal de Pediatria - Year 2019, Vol 95, Issue 2

Abstract

Webster's dictionary of American English1 defines the “pacifier” as an object that makes one “quiet or peaceful,” surely a welcome behavioral outcome that mothers routinely report from its use with their infants. The current form of the pacifier (e.g., a soft teat, a guard, and a handle) dates back to design patents from the early 1900s. However, it is notable that soothing hard rings, teats made from linen rags stuffed with sugar, or various foodstuffs have been documented in the medical literature from the 15th century and depicted in classical art from the 16th century. Capitalizing on the inherent non-nutritive sucking physiology of infants, the use of these objects leads to enhancing a form of the infant's behavior that stabilizes breathing, stimulates oral motor function, and modifies autonomic functioning and sleep patterns.2 Thus, it is not surprising that the positive value of its routine use is captured by the American usage of the term “pacifier.”

Authors and Affiliations

Arthur Eidelman

Keywords

Routine pacifier use in infants: pros and cons

EP ID EP497373
DOI 10.1016/j.jped.2018.03.002
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