Contrary to popular belief, babies are not born knowing how to breastfeed correctly.

So, in the first few days of life, it’s common for them to need some practice and guidance. For most mums and babies, achieving the correct latch often takes time, trial, error, and a lot of discomfort.

There’s nothing more stressful when they’re struggling to feed – particularly when they’re so new and vulnerable – because our instinct is to care for them, and feeding forms a fundamental part of that.

When mums are not succeeding, they often feel an enormous amount of guilt, which, while completely unwarranted, is entirely normal. While the guidance we receive from lactation consultants is invaluable, ultimately, it’s our responsibility to help them latch and feed properly. So, when you don’t have someone guiding you and it’s just you and your baby, it can feel very overwhelming.

Now imagine a pacifier that is not just an accessory to soothe but actually helps you teach your baby to suck.

Our soon-to-arrive Difrax dummy does exactly that, and the story behind it is truly compelling. Not to mention the fact that it received an international award before it even hit the shelves!

Patented and produced by the Dutch brand Difrax, the affectionately named Pinky Pacifier redefines the concept of a traditional soother. Offering a scientifically designed solution that supports natural sucking reflexes and aids in the transition to breastfeeding or bottle feeding, it has been praised by healthcare professionals, parents, and international award panellists for its innovative approach and effectiveness.

Here’s why:

According to Difrax’s specialist Maternity Nurse and Consultant, the sucking reflex for babies is their survival kit. And she’s absolutely right. In the first two weeks, it’s especially important that babies develop a good sucking reflex. If their technique is not right and they don’t use their tongue correctly, they can’t suck and feed properly.

Driven by the need to support infants' natural sucking reflex, Difrax meticulously designed this unique dummy. They assembled an expert panel of medical professionals to create a carefully constructed pacifier that encourages a natural sucking reflex in newborns and premature infants. Providing a distinctive solution that helps infants master the correct sucking techniques, the Pinky Pacifier facilitates a smoother and more effective transition to breastfeeding or bottle feeding. This technique involves parents placing their pinky fingers into the back end of the dummy, aiding the sucking reflex; and as you pull away, babies continue to suck confidently.

The dummy’s design features a silicone-based, butterfly shape, allowing babies to breathe freely through their nose. It’s safe, tasteless, and allergy-free. Specially designed for newborn babies who have difficulty latching or accepting a soother.

Not only does the Pinky Pacifier support the baby's development, but it also provides valuable assistance to parents, helping them navigate the early feeding challenges. By strengthening the bond between parent and child from birth, the Pinky Pacifier ensures that even the smallest and most vulnerable infants receive the care they need during those crucial early stages. Available in stylish Aqua and Moonstone colors, it’s designed to support both babies and their parents through this important transition.

What a Good Breastfeeding Latch Looks Like

A good breastfeeding latch is crucial for both the baby and the mother. Here are some signs of a proper latch:

• Baby’s mouth is wide open: The baby should have a wide-open mouth, covering more of the areola with the bottom lip than the top lip
• Chin and nose touch the breast: The baby’s chin and nose should be touching the breast
• Rounded cheeks: The baby’s cheeks should be rounded, not sucked in
• No clicking noises: There should be no clicking or smacking noises while the baby is nursing
• Comfortable for mom: Breastfeeding should not be painful for the mother. There may be initial discomfort, but it should not be sustained pain

Signs That Baby Isn't Latching Properly

An improper latch can lead to feeding problems and discomfort. Here are some signs that your baby might not be latching correctly:

• Baby’s mouth isn’t wide open: The baby’s mouth is not covering enough of the areola
• Painful feeding: If breastfeeding is painful for you, it may indicate an improper latch
• Clicking noises: Hearing clicking or smacking noises can be a sign of a poor latch
• Baby’s cheeks are sucked in: If the baby’s cheeks are dimpled while sucking, they might not have a good latch
• Frequent slipping off the breast: If the baby keeps slipping off the breast, it may indicate they’re not latched on well

 Watch this space for the launch of the Difrax Pinky Pacifier later this month.

Written by Jacqui Mills.