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. 2022 Jul 14;181(9):3421–3428. doi: 10.1007/s00431-022-04559-9

What is Known:

• Observational studies show that infants who use a pacifier are weaned from breastfeeding earlier.

• Previous randomized studies have not presented such results, and there have been no differences in the successful breastfeeding rates regardless of the use of pacifier.

What is New:

• Term and preterm newborns do not have worse breastfeeding outcomes if a pacifier is introduced to them, and additionally preterm newborns have shorter hospitalization times.

• The decision to offer a pacifier should depend on the caregivers instead of hospital policy or staff recommendation, as there is no evidence to support the prohibition or restriction.