The pros

For some babies, pacifiers are the key to contentment between feedings. Consider the advantages:

• A pacifier might soothe a fussy baby. Some babies are happiest when they're sucking on something.
• A pacifier offers a short-term distraction. Using a pacifier can help lessen pain. So it might come in handy during and after procedures such as shots or blood tests.
• A pacifier might help your baby fall asleep. If your baby has trouble settling down, a pacifier might do the trick.
• A pacifier might ease discomfort during flights. Air pressure changes can cause ear pain. Adults can "pop" their ears by swallowing or yawning to ease pressure. But babies can't do that. Sucking on a pacifier might help.
• A pacifier might lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, also known as SIDS. Sucking on a pacifier at nap time and bedtime might lower the risk of SIDS.
• Pacifiers can be thrown out. When it's time to stop using pacifiers, you can throw them away. If your child prefers to suck on the thumb or fingers, it might be harder to break the habit.