According to a recent study published by Pediatrics magazine The use of the pacifier "significantly reduces the risk of sudden death in babies, particularly when used during sleep."
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), also called "white death", is the leading cause of death in the West in children under 12 months. Death occurs suddenly and until today scientists have not been able to determine the cause that causes it. What they have discovered are some factors that would help reduce this syndrome, such as the use of the pacifier when they take a nap or at night.
The study is based on seven essays on the subject. Among the hypotheses, he states that the use of the pacifier moves the tongue forward and causes the airways to open more. Even when babies suck a pacifier, sleep is not so deep and they can wake up more easily. The author of the study, Dr. Fern Hauck, from the University of Virginia, concluded that thanks to the use of the pacifier "there was a 61 percent reduction in the risk of SIDS."
The conclusions have convinced the American Academy of Pediatrics that, as a result of the study, it has included the use of the pacifier in its recommendations against the SIDS. Other behaviors that the Academy advises are: that the baby sleep on its side, use firm mattresses, do not smoke during pregnancy or in front of the child, avoid any object in the crib, maintain an adequate ambient temperature and ensure that the people who care for Babies know these measures.
