The Air Force Safety Center is a Field Operating Agency with headquarters at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M.
The Finnish researchers are unsure why the use of a pacifier might lead to an ear infection, but theorized it may have something to do with the change in pressure equilibrium inside the ear caused by the sucking.
The BabyCenter Editorial Team. Sucking on a pacifier may be beneficial for infants because it's linked to a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (although it's not clear why). But after 6 months, pacifier use is less helpful and more of a habit. Some doctors say 6 to 12 months is a good time to wean your child from the pacifier, especially if your child is prone to to ear infections. The American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Family Physicians recommend limiting or stopping pacifier use after your baby is 6 months old to reduce the risk of ear infections.