If given during sleep, as per a few scientific studies pacifier can reduce the chances of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) among babies. However, if a pacifier is given for a long term to a child under the age of two years, it increases the chances of ear infection. Hence, it is better to snuggle with a child and sleep instead of making them sleep in a separate room or in a cradle. This will help in preventing SIDS and also there would be no need to give the pacifier in sleep.