Why Do Babies Love to Suck? 7 Fascinating Reasons and When it Might be a Red Flag
- Carissa Guiley
- May 13
- 2 min read
Why Do Babies Love to Suck?
If you have ever watched a baby with a pacifier, you've probably noticed how calm or focused they appear. Sucking is one of the very first instincts a baby is born with- but have you ever wondered why it's so comforting to them? Let's explore the many reasons behind this natural behavior.
It's a Natural Reflex!
Babies are hard wired to suck! It's a reflex that emerges early in the womb, that helps them learn how to eat. Babies begin sucking on fingers and hands, while swallowing amniotic fluid. Once born, babies will use these reflexes to locate the breast and initiating feeding. Babies are pretty amazing!
Sucking Providers Comfort and Security.
Sucking triggers the release of calming hormones, like endorphins, which help babies feel safe and comforted. That is why many babies self-soothe by sucking. It offers reassurance, especially in new or stressful situations.
It Helps Regulate the Nervous System.
Sucking plays a role is regulating a baby's nervous system. The repetitive, rhythmic motion activates the parasympathetic nervous system- helping babies shift from overstimulation or distress to calm and relaxed. This is especially important in the first months of life when babies rely on external soothing strategies.
Sucking Helps with Sleep.
Sucking can be a powerful sleep cue. The aact of sucking not only calms the nervous system, but also signals the brain that it's time to wind down. Many babies fall asleep while nursing, bottle-feeding, or sucking on a pacifier for this reason.
It Aids Digestion.
Sucking encourages saliva production and helps activate the digestive system process. During feeding, it also supports the coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing- a complex task that babies gradually master.
Sucking Helps Babies Explore the World.
Babies learn through their senses, and the mouth is one of their first tools for exploration. Sucking allows them to discover different textures, temperatures, and even tastes- all essential for sensory development and early learning.
It Promotes Bonding.
Feeding times are not just for nourishment, they're also emotional touch points. Sucking during breastfeeding or bottle feeding promotes closeness, eye contact, and skin-to-skin connection. These moments strengthen the bond between baby and caregiver and support emotional development.
When Sucking Becomes a Red Flag.
While it is normal for babies to enjoy sucking, if your baby needs constant sucking, it might indicate:
If you are a breastfeeding mama feeling touched out, or notice that your baby has a need to constantly be on the breast or sucking on a pacifier- it may be time to schedule with a lactation consultant or infant feeding therapist. Lactation support can help identify underlying cause(s), while therapy can address challenges associated with over reliance on sucking. Schedule a consult to chat more about your concern.
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