If your baby fusses and has been changed, fed and burped, try putting baby to breast again.  If baby does not want to feed again, try holding baby skin to skin, rocking and walking with your baby.  Play soft music, sing or hum.  A warm bath or massage may be comforting. 

The Period of Purple Crying is a time when babies cry more than any other time.  Good evidence-based information can be found on their website about crying and sleeping. 

 
Pacifier Use

Many breastfed babies never use a pacifier.  The way babies suck on a pacifier is different from the way they suck at the breast.  While your baby is still learning to breastfeed, she may find it difficult to go from breast to pacifier and back again. 

Sometimes babies change the way they suck at the breast and become less efficient.  This may cause sore nipples, or the baby may not gain weight well.  Using a pacifier can cause mothers to make less milk.  Pacifiers can also increase the risk of babies getting ear infections and having later dental problems.  If you decide to use a pacifier, only give it to your baby for a short time after feeds

It is recommended that the use of a pacifier be delayed until a breastfeeding routine is established.  This may take up to six weeks or longer.  Delaying or not using a pacifier will help you:

  • Get to know your baby’s feeding cues
  • Understand your baby’s unique way of communicating his
    or her needs to you
  • Increase your milk supply by allowing your baby to
    feed on demand
  • Establish a good latch, which decreases the risk of
    painful breastfeeding

Some research suggests that using a pacifier at naptime and bedtime may decrease the risk of SIDS. It is recommended that the use of a pacifier be delayed until breastfeeding is well established. Do not force your baby to take a pacifier if they are not interested.