Baby Keeps Spitting Out Pacifier and Crying: 7 Possible Reasons
If your baby keeps spitting out their pacifier and crying, it can be frustrating. What was once a helpful and soothing comfort item now seems to be a source of annoyance. Why does this happen?
Many parents don’t have the time or patience to constantly replace their baby’s pacifier after being spat out. Understanding why your baby does this is key to finding solutions. Here are 7 possible reasons for this behavior so you can decipher what might be going on in your little one's mind.
Why is My Baby Spitting Out the Pacifier?
From bodily functions to developmental changes, there are many reasons why your baby might spit out or refuse a pacifier. Every baby is different! Some may take well pacifiers and rely on them for comfort. Others may never care to use one at all.
Regardless, consider the following reasons why your baby might spit out their binky and cry.
1. Discomfort or Pain
Is your baby spitting out their pacifier frequently? It could be a sign of discomfort or pain. Teething, ear infections, or other discomforts might make sucking on a pacifier unpleasant.
Look for signs like excessive drooling, irritability, or pulling at their ears. Addressing the underlying cause, such as providing teething relief or consulting a pediatrician for ear infection treatment, can help alleviate the discomfort and reduce pacifier rejection.
2. Hunger
Sometimes, babies spit out their pacifiers because they're hungry. When their tummies rumble, they're more interested in feeding than soothing. It's easy to confuse hunger cues with pacifier rejection, especially if your baby seems fussy.
Look for signs like rooting or lip-smacking, indicating they're ready for a feed. Offering a feeding instead of the pacifier might satisfy their hunger and help them settle down.
3. Thirst
Similarly, when babies feel thirsty, they may reject their pacifier. It can be uncomfortable to suck on a rubber nipple when their mouth feels dry. Pay attention to cues indicating thirst, such as increased sucking motions or agitation, and respond promptly. Additionally, ensure the room temperature is comfortable, as overheating can increase thirst.
Signs of thirst in babies include dry lips, increased fussiness, and restlessness. To keep your baby hydrated and content, offer frequent feeds if you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding. For older babies, introduce water in a bottle or sippy cup between feeds, especially in hot weather.
4. Overstimulation
Babies can become easily overstimulated, making it challenging for them to self-soothe with a pacifier. Signs of overstimulation include increased fussiness, avoiding eye contact, and arching their back. When babies are overstimulated, they may reject the pacifier as they struggle to find comfort.
To address overstimulation, create a calming environment by reducing noise and visual stimuli.. Consider gentle rocking, swaddling, or baby massage techniques to promote relaxation. If your baby continues to resist the pacifier, try offering it again once they are in a calmer state.
5. Grogginess or Fatigue
Feeling sleepy can play a role in pacifier rejection, especially when babies are overtired, groggy, and struggling to self-soothe. Signs of fatigue include increased fussiness, rubbing eyes, and decreased activity.
During pacifier use, tired babies may show disinterest or push away the pacifier. To address fatigue-related pacifier rejection, prioritize establishing a reliable sleep routine. Try to achieve an ideal sleep environment by dimming lights, reducing noise, and maintaining a comfortable temperature. Pay attention to your baby's sleep cues and respond promptly to their tiredness by offering soothing activities like gentle rocking or swaddling. Additionally, avoid overstimulating activities close to bedtime to prevent fatigue.
6. Pacifier Preferences
Babies can be picky about their pacifiers. They might prefer specific shapes, sizes, or textures. Factors such as nipple shape, material, and firmness can significantly impact a baby's acceptance or rejection of a pacifier. Some babies dislike pacifiers with certain textures or sizes, leading them to spit them out.
To address pacifier rejection due to preferences, experiment with different pacifier styles to find one that suits your baby's preferences. Introduce new pacifiers gradually, allowing your baby to become accustomed to the new shape or texture over time. If your baby continues to reject certain pacifiers, they may simply not enjoy pacifiers or have underlying issues causing resistance. By being attentive to your baby's preferences and gradually introducing new options, you can increase the likelihood of finding a pacifier that your baby will happily accept.
7. Developmental Milestones
As babies grow and reach various developmental milestones, their behaviors and preferences change. This includes their relationship with pacifiers. Increased mobility—such as rolling over or crawling—may lead babies to spit out their pacifiers as they become more engaged with their surroundings and less interested in soothing aids.
Plus, as babies become more curious and explore objects with their mouths, they may lose their desire for pacifiers. Adapting to these changes involves understanding that pacifier use may fluctuate during different stages of development. Respect a baby's changing preferences and not force the pacifier if they show disinterest. Instead, offer comfort and alternative soothing techniques as needed.
How to Get Your Baby to Take a Pacifier if They Spit it Out
Getting your baby to take a pacifier can be challenging, but these tips may help.
Choose the Right Pacifier: Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and materials to find one your baby prefers.
Introduce It Early: Offer the pacifier when your baby is calm and relaxed, not when they're already upset.
Dip in Breast Milk or Formula: A familiar taste might make the pacifier more appealing.
Gently Hold It: Hold the pacifier in your baby's mouth until they start sucking.
Be Persistent: Keep trying even if your baby initially rejects it. Patience is key.
Remember, if your baby continues to refuse a pacifier when offered, they may have grown out of it or lost the preference. Talk with your baby’s pediatrician if they show sudden behavioral changes that are especially concerning to you.
Ensure Your Baby’s Comfort With or Without a Pacifier
Babies spit out their binky and cry for all sorts of reasons. Whether it be discomfort, hunger, overstimulation, fatigue, or preference, it’s crucial to observe and interpret your baby's cues to address underlying needs.
By experimenting with different approaches and seeking support when needed, you can navigate pacifier use challenges and ensure your baby's comfort. Remember, every baby is unique, so remain patient and flexible.
In the meantime, track your baby’s changes with the Baby Connect app—an app that helps parents understand their babies’ behaviors at every phase of development. Download it today to get started.
