No. Several studies have shown that there is no link between pacifier use and the success of breastfeeding your baby. Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine reviewed 29 studies from 12 countries and found that moms who used pacifiers did stop breastfeeding sooner, and pacifiers were not the reason.

Silicone and latex pacifiers should be cared for in different ways

For silicone pacifiers: Boil for five minutes before first use.  Wash regularly in hot, soapy water or use dishwasher top rack to maintain cleanliness. Or, use our Snap ‘n Clean™ Sterilizer Cover to kill 99.9% of bacteria in just 2 minutes by filling the sterilizer to the water line, inserting the Ortho-Pro pacifier into the sterilizer with nipple faced down until shield snaps into place and microwave on high for 2 minutes. 

For latex pacifiers: Boil for five minutes before first use. Do not boil thereafter. Wash regularly in hot, soapy water for about one minute and rinse thoroughly. Always wait for pacifier to cool before giving to baby. Do not use dishwasher or steam sterilizer.

Silicone and latex pacifiers wear differently and should be replaced at different times.

For silicone pacifiers:  Inspect the nipple portion regularly, especially when baby is teething. If pacifier becomes cracked, torn, or shows other signs of excess wear, discontinue use immediately.

For latex pacifiers:  All natural latex can weaken after 2-3 months of normal use and should be replaced. Inspect the nipple portion regularly, especially when baby is teething. If pacifier nipple becomes sticky, swollen, cracked, torn or shows other signs of excess wear, discontinue use immediately. Do not expose to excessive heat or direct sunlight for an extended period of time.

Playtex® pacifiers are available at a variety of online retailers including amazon.com. You may also be able to find them in local stores including Walmart, Babies R Us, Target and Kmart. For additional questions, you may also call our Consumer Affairs Team at 1.800.222.0453.