By Katie Coleman, Master NCS & Founder of Baby Brilliance
Why Soothing Sucks Matter—Even in the First Two Weeks
At Baby Brilliance, we support parents with evidence-based guidance that honors both baby’s development and your well-being. One topic that often comes up in those first few sleep-deprived weeks is whether to use a pacifier while breastfeeding is still being established. You may have heard the common advice: “Don’t introduce a pacifier until breastfeeding is fully established—usually 4 to 6 weeks.” But we’re here to say: It’s okay to reconsider. In fact, pacifiers can play an incredibly helpful role in those very first days—without sabotaging breastfeeding—when used intentionally and with support.
Let’s talk about why:
1. Babies Are Born to Suck—and Not Just for Food
Sucking is one of the most powerful natural reflexes your newborn has. It’s how they eat, but also how they self-regulate, calm their nervous systems, and transition from womb to world. A pacifier provides a safe, soothing outlet for that need, especially after a full feeding when baby still wants to suck for comfort.
2. Pacifiers Protect Mom’s Nipples (and Sanity)
When a baby wants to comfort suck constantly, it can lead to prolonged time on the breast, nipple soreness, and even ineffective feedings. Offering a pacifier after a full feed gives your baby the soothing rhythm they crave—without overuse of the breast, which can cause pain or even impact supply through overstimulation.
3. Better Sleep for Baby—and You
Pacifiers help babies settle more easily between feeds. This means more peaceful naps and longer stretches of sleep at night, especially for babies who aren’t hungry but still need help winding down. When you’re recovering from birth and navigating postpartum, every extra minute of sleep matters.
4. Pacifiers Are a Breastfeeding Ally in the NICU
In hospital settings—especially NICUs—pacifiers are widely used to support premature and medically fragile babies. They help with oral development, encourage suck-swallow-breathe coordination, and provide comfort during and between feedings. These benefits can apply at home too, especially with babies who were NICU graduates.
5. Pacifiers Reduce the Risk of SIDS
One of the most compelling reasons to introduce a pacifier early? Pacifier use during naps and bedtime is associated with a significantly reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Even if the pacifier falls out, that initial sucking motion appears to support safer sleep.
What About Nipple Confusion?
The idea that pacifiers cause “nipple confusion” has been largely overstated. The truth is: nipple confusion is rare and typically only occurs when there are already underlying feeding issues. If baby is latching well, gaining weight, and nursing effectively, using a pacifier will not derail breastfeeding. What truly protects your nursing journey is knowledgeable, hands-on support—and that’s exactly what our team at Baby Brilliance is here to offer.
Tips for Using a Pacifier in the Newborn Stage
- Wait until after a full feed to introduce it—never replace feedings with a pacifier.
- Use a one-piece, orthodontic-style pacifier made for newborns.
- Clean it frequently and check for signs of wear.
- Watch for hunger cues—if baby is hungry, offer the breast first.
- Follow safe sleep guidelines: pacifiers are safe in the crib, but avoid clips or attachments
- during sleep.
Baby Brilliance Pacifier Recommendations
Our Favorite Brands of Pacifiers in the Newborn Stage
Final Thoughts
Pacifiers are not the enemy of breastfeeding—they can actually be a powerful tool for soothing, bonding, and giving both baby and parents the support they need. As always, every baby and every feeding journey is unique. What matters most is feeling confident, informed, and supported along the way.
Have Questions or Concerns About Pacifier Use While Breastfeeding?
Our lactation specialist is here to help! If you have any questions about your baby’s latch, feeding patterns, or introducing a pacifier in those early days, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Click to schedule a consultation or send us a message—we’re here for you!
References & Resources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “Pacifier Use and the Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.”
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “How to Keep Breastfeeding on Track.”
- Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Clinical Protocol #10: Breastfeeding the Late Preterm Infant (34–36 6/7 Weeks Gestation).
- Stanford Medicine. “Pacifiers and Nipple Confusion: Myth or Fact?”
- Neonatal Network. “Use of Pacifiers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.”
- World Health Organization (WHO). “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.”
- Journal of Pediatric Research. “Effect of Non-nutritive Sucking on Neonatal Pain: A Meta-Analysis.”
- La Leche League International (LLLI). “Pacifiers and Breastfeeding.”
- Mayo Clinic. “Pacifiers: Are They Good for Your Baby?”
- Medela. “Understanding Nipple Confusion.”
