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

1. Sucking on a dummy appears to have a soothing effect on babies.
2. Dummies can keep babies settled in between feeds.
3. Dummies can help settle babies to sleep
4. Dummies may reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Disadvantages of using a dummy

1. Babies can end up dependant on their dummy and parents often struggle removing it from them.
2. Babies can wake up at night crying if the dummy falls out of their mouth.
3. Dummy use beyond 5 years of age can increase the chance of dental problems.
4. Dummy use may have an increased chance of middle ear infections.
5. Use of a Dummy may lead to breastfeeding difficulties and early weening.
6. Use 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.

References :
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2791559/
2. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/11927877/Giving-dummies-to-babies-can-slow-their-ability-to-talk-research-suggests.html