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. 1997 Jun;24(2):116-20.
doi: 10.1111/j.1523-536x.1997.tb00351.x.

Breastfeeding and the use of pacifiers

L Righard  1 , M O Alade
Affiliations

Breastfeeding and the use of pacifiers

L Righard et al. Birth. 1997 Jun.

Abstract

Background: This study was designed to test the hypothesis that incorrect sucking technique and pacifier use are factors contributing to breastfeeding failure.

Method: The nursing patterns of 82 exclusively breastfeeding mother-infant pairs were observed 4 to 5 days postpartum on the maternity ward at University Hospital in Malmö, Sweden. The breastfeeding outcome and pacifier use was assessed by regular telephone contacts during a 4-month follow-up.

Results: The breastfeeding rate at 4 months was 91 percent in the nonpacifier group and 44 percent in the pacifier group (p = 0.03). An incorrect superficial nipple-sucking technique at the breast from the start combined with pacifier use resulted in early weaning in most cases.

Conclusion: To promote successful breastfeeding and to reduce nursing problems, an incorrect sucking technique should be prevented or corrected, and the use of pacifiers should be avoided or restricted.

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