ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING A DUMMY
Whether or not to use a dummy can be a controversial topic among parents . For some parents, using a dummy can be a lifesaver and make parenting more enjoyable. Other parents prefer not to use them.
There are both advantages and disadvantages of using a dummy.
Advantages of using a dummy
- 1Sucking on a dummy appears to have a soothing effect on babies.
- 2Dummies can keep babies settled in between feeds.
- 3Dummies can help settle babies to sleep
- 4Dummies may reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Disadvantages of using a dummy
- 1Babies can end up dependant on their dummy and parents often struggle removing it from them.
- 2Babies can wake up at night crying if the dummy falls out of their mouth.
- 3Dummy use beyond 5 years of age can increase the chance of dental problems.
- 4Dummy use may have an increased chance of middle ear infections.
- 5Use of a Dummy may lead to breastfeeding difficulties and early weening.
- 6Use of a dummy may increase the risk of delayed speech development.
When to introduce a dummy (if you decided to use one) ?
Dummies should be introduced only after breastfeeding has been established, usually after 4 weeks of age.This may help reduce any interference with breastfeeding.
How chiropractic may assist in those parents not wanting to use a dummy
Some babies will be unsatisfied and want to suck constantly in order to sooth pain or discomfort. Musculoskeletal problems can developed from the birth process and may cause pain in some babies. Having these musculoskeletal problems corrected may resolve the pain and discomfort. With pain no longer experienced , your baby will no longer be irritated and want to suck constantly.
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