oooh lollybaby, I'm so sorry to hear you're having trouble I'm afraid I haven't had the same experience as you. I did use some lansinoh for sore nipples early on, but I didn't ever have cracks. I suggest you give ABA a call and see what they say? I'm wondering that maybe your nipples were only just healed, so the pump was a bit too brutal? Also, I would say the Lactina is a bit harsher to use than a Symphony & Pump in Style. You may need to work up really really gradually to use it? I know it's a PITA, but as you said, maybe manual pumping in the short-term and see if your nipples start to toughen up. I really hope it get's better for you.

As for what you said about not doing a rigid schedule, absolutely agree! I used to just do it when bub was asleep and there was nothing else that I HAD to do. In order to look after bub well, you need to look after yourself well - and that's all about making everything manageable & maintainable for a happy relaxed mummy - not a stressed out, rushed off her feet, crying mummy (even tho we all have our moments anyway!). Oh and I didn't pump in the middle of the night from about 10 weeks, as X was sleeping through, and my supply still managed ok. I heard of some people getting up to pump, and I was just like...noooo! So agree with you there Sars, for me the sleep seemed to make more of a difference, plus helped keep me semi-sane .