Pacifier and bottle use while breastfeeding

Pacifier use

Somali: Ilmahaaga dhawaan dhashay ee naaska jaqa ma siin kartaa mujuruca aamusiinta?

There are times that babies want the comfort that comes from sucking but aren't hungry. If your baby is sucking for comfort, their sucking pattern will be different. There is sucking but rarely any swallowing. The rate may start out rapid and then slows as your baby feels comforted.

It’s OK to offer your breast or finger or your baby’s hand for comfort. It is best to delay offering a pacifier until latch-on is effortless and your milk is well-established. The more time your newborn spends nursing in the first weeks of life, the more milk you will make. Regular pacifier use in the early weeks may affect milk supply and cause slow weight gain.

Bottle use (for breastmilk)

Somali: Caanaha masaasada ama dhalada ma siin kartaa dhawaan-dhaladkaaga naaska la nuujiyo ee caafimaad qaba?

In general, it is best to wait to use a bottle until breastfeeding is well-established (typically in three to four weeks).

If your baby cannot latch-on or eat due to medical reasons, you can still express breastmilk and feed your baby from a dropper, spoon, cup or bottle. If you use a bottle, use a nipple that is slow flow.

Call your lactation resource before you start using a bottle.