Are pacifiers safe for newborns?
On One Hand: Pacifiers are Safe for NewbornsAs long as you abide by some simple guidelines, pacifiers are safe for your newborn. In 2005, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended offering pacifiers as a deterrent for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, based on their meta-analysis of seven studies. With pacifier safety, the two main things to remember are cleanliness and simplicity. Pacifiers need to withstand multiple thorough cleanings and should be all one piece to prevent choking hazards. Discard any pacifiers with rips, and the guard should be at least 1.5 inches across. Additionally, Consumer Reports requires a pull test—it needs to withstand 10 pounds of pressure when pulled in any direction.On the Other: Pacifiers Are a Risk for NewbornsCritics rarely cite safety as their objection. Following the guidelines above will virtually eliminate any hazards posed by pacifiers. Most pacifiers on the market today will fit all of these criteria, but some add frills. However, the baby wo
