In a message dated 5/23/02 1:48:25 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:


> Over time I began to notice a common thread with many of these babies  and
> it
> often was that they wouldn't take/didn't use a pacifier.  I wonder if it
> has
> somethig to do with the familiarity of the *plactic* in their mouths that
> makes them more willing and I have often contemplated mentioning this to
> parents as a *potential advantage* of pacifier use. I haven't yet..

Lynn, this is not a flame.  I will counter your theory though.  The common
thread I have observed when parents call stating their baby refuses a bottle
but previously took them is the "push" to take the bottle now because they
are heading back to work or some other reason for separation of mother and
baby.  Babies are very perceptive and know when they are being pushed.  Most
find this pressure a negative experience and refuses to cooperate.
I do agree with LLLL that parents should try alternative feeding methods if
the baby refuses to accept a bottle.  This is my theory, partly based on Dr.
Marshal Klaus, that babies are imitators so one way to try and persuade a
baby to try something is to show them what you want them to do.  So when the
distressed parent calls me that their baby refuses to take a bottle I suggest
they try a cup because that is what the baby sees others using or for the
parents to drink from a bottle in front of the baby making it look like an
enjoyable experience.
On a final note, both of my children refused pacifiers but whenever a bottle
was offered (which was very infrequent prior to my returning to work and then
on a regular basis after I returned to work) they had no problem going back
and forth breast or bottle.
Interesting thoughts.
Ann Perry RN, IBCLC
Boston, MA

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