Health Option: Giving baby a pacifier? Do it safely
Jul 01, 2011
Pacifiers have become commonplace for Ugandan mothers today. However, just like any other item, they could pose a threat to babies if precautionary measures are not put in place.
Pacifiers have become commonplace for Ugandan mothers today. However, just like any other item, they could pose a threat to babies if precautionary measures are not put in place.
To prevent strangulation, no ribbon, string, cord, or yarn should be attached to a pacifier.
The pacifier’s shield should be large enough and firm enough to not fit into a child’s mouth.
Choose a pacifier whose guard or shield has ventilation holes so the baby can breathe if the shield does happen to get into the mouth.
Check regularly to ensure that the pacifier nipple does not have any holes or tears that might cause it to break off in baby’s mouth. If it does have any break or tear, throw it away immediately.
Soak pacifiers in boiling water or sterilisers regularly to avoid your child getting infections. When the pacifier meets the floor, wash it thoroughly. Carry extra pacifiers if your baby tends to drop theirs a lot.
To prevent strangulation, no ribbon, string, cord, or yarn should be attached to a pacifier.
The pacifier’s shield should be large enough and firm enough to not fit into a child’s mouth.
Choose a pacifier whose guard or shield has ventilation holes so the baby can breathe if the shield does happen to get into the mouth.
Check regularly to ensure that the pacifier nipple does not have any holes or tears that might cause it to break off in baby’s mouth. If it does have any break or tear, throw it away immediately.
Soak pacifiers in boiling water or sterilisers regularly to avoid your child getting infections. When the pacifier meets the floor, wash it thoroughly. Carry extra pacifiers if your baby tends to drop theirs a lot.