I used breastmilk, air and sunlight (in small doses) and my cracks never healed until I stopped using them. I just wish there was something I can do before the baby comes to make my nipples stronger. They are quite soft to me, and IMO prone to cracking.
Interestingly, the best preparation for breastfeeding has very little to do with your nipples - it's all in your head! Join the Australian Breastfeeding Association and go to one of their classes. There is nothing that is better value in preparing for breastfeeding.
Barb, when would you recommend attending a class (ie how long before the birth) I saw on the ABA site that the membership is 12months so wanted to try and leave it to join as close to bubs due date as possible
I have very sensitive fair skin and was 'warned' that I would 'have problems' with my nipples. Thanks to the excellent class I did pre-baby (that didn't suggest using a toothbrush - ouch! - or cream), and the ABA's book, attachment was a breeze and my nipples were fine. I did have to get used to the sensation, but it wasn't painful. I did the class only a few days before DD was born, but I read the book earlier.
(I used a lanolin cream for a few days after an inadvertent grazing of one nipple (but that was due to spinal fluid leak and inability to sit up - whole other story!) and I did think it was useful then.)
I would say, do the class early in the last trimester - don't leave it till the last minute just in case you go into labour early - with a prem baby you'll need that inorfmation and support even more.
Many mothers join ABA for several years anyway - conside taking out a 2 yr membership - it's only $95 for two years. You will get to enjoy all those great shopping discounts when you need them most during pregnancy. And, go along to a group meeting before you have the baby. I always find that at ABA meetings mums are honest about what to expect, but in a supportive and encouraging way - not "the horror stories" that are normally dished out.
Well there you go... I didn't even know about 2 year memberships! Thanks Barb & Jennifer. I will look into joining now and then I can start booking into meetings etc... life is starting to get hectic for me!
Where do they do these classes? I'm out in the Hunter Valley and I don't drive atm. What sort of things do they teach? I know how to breastfeed, I just got badly damaged because DD chomped rather than suckled.
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