I used one for my last 2 children. I made sure they had enough to eat and then the pacifier helped me to be able to put them down to sleep. I wish they had sucked a finger or thumb but they did not. With my next child I am going to make sure his hands do not get washed after birth. I read in the book "your amazing newborn" that they will suck on there hands alot right after birth if there is still amniotic fluid on them. BUt if all else fails then I will use a pacifier. If this child needs it.