Babies can't intentionally "pop" their ears by swallowing or yawning to relieve ear pain caused by air pressure changes. Sucking on a pacifier might help. A pacifier might help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Sucking on a pacifier at nap time and bedtime might reduce the risk of SIDS .

When should you give a newborn a pacifier?

When should you introduce a pacifier to your baby? It's best to ensure that your baby has gotten the hang of breastfeeding (by around 3 or 4 weeks old) before you introduce a pacifier. That's because the sucking mechanism for breastfeeding is different from that used for sucking on a pacifier.

Can I give my newborn a pacifier?

Pacifiers are safe for your newborn. When you give them one depends on you and your baby. You might prefer to have them practically come out of the womb with a pacifier and do just fine. Or it may be better to wait a few weeks, if they're having trouble latching onto your breast.