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.
Time it right. Wean your baby from a pacifier after 6 months old, when the risk of SIDS drops and ear infections become more likely. If you want to help him give it up slowly, try to limit it to nap time or sleep only, Sexton says. Also, try not to wean when other life changes occur.