Using a Dummy: Benefits & Drawbacks

Dummies, also known soothers, or comforters, are small, rubber, latex, or silicone nipples that are given to babies to suck on for comfort. They have a long history dating back to ancient Rome, where babies were given honey-soaked pieces of cloth to chew on to alleviate their discomfort. Dummies have undergone several design changes over the years and are now a common and popular item used by parents to calm and soothe their crying babies.

There are several benefits associated with using dummies. One of the main benefits is that they can help to soothe and calm a crying baby, which can be especially useful for parents who are trying to get their newborn to sleep. This can be a huge relief for parents, as crying babies can be very exhausting and stressful to deal with. Dummies can also help to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by promoting proper ventilation during sleep.

Another benefit of dummies is that they can be used to transition babies from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding. This can be useful for mothers who need to return to work or who have difficulty breastfeeding. 

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using dummies. One concern is that they may interfere with breastfeeding. It is important for mothers to be mindful of how often their baby is using a pacifier, as excessive use can lead to decreased breastfeeding frequency and decreased milk supply. Dummies may also lead to a higher risk of ear infections in young children (read more here). Dummies can also cause dental problems if they are used for an extended period of time, as they can alter the natural development of the teeth and mouth. 

It is also important to properly care for dummies to ensure that they are safe for your baby to use. Dummies should be washed frequently with soap and water and replaced every few months to prevent the build-up of bacteria. It is also important to choose a dummy that is the appropriate size for your baby, as using a dummy that is too small can be a choking hazard.

When it comes to deciding whether or not to use a dummy, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some parents swear by dummies as a lifesaver, while others choose not to use them at all. There is no right or wrong answer, and it is up to each individual parent to decide what works best for their baby and their family.

You can shop out range of dummies & accessories here should you choose to use one.