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Have a question for Dr. Bill or Martha?
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Dr. Bill and Martha Answer:
I just finished reading your opinion on the use of pacifiers. I have a bit of a reverse problem: my son, Alex, who is 4½ months old has refused to take a pacifier since day one (he just doesn't seem to "get" it). I know that babies need to suck, and at times he seems content to suck on the shoulder of whoever is holding him, or suck on his fist or several fingers at one time. When he's in his crib trying to sleep he even sucks on his own tongue! How strong is this sucking need? Answer: Actually, it's better that your baby learns to suck on his fingers rather than a pacifier, since his fingers are always available in time of discomfort, especially at 3 a.m. Obviously, the sucking need is still quite strong. Rather than encouraging him to suck on a pacifier, encourage him to suck on your fingers and his own. Expect this intense need to suck to last only a few more months and to reappear in times of high need. |
