Nipple Care
Breastfeeding experts advise NOT to use any kind of nipple cream
to treat or prevent sore nipples. Instead, apply a small amount
of breast milk to the dry nipple. The Montgomery glands, which
look like small "pimples" ringing the edge of the nipple,
secrete an antibacterial, lubricating fluid. For this reason,
washing the nipples before breastfeeding is NOT needed, and will
actually contribute to cracked, sore nipples. Also, do NOT try
to prepare your breasts during pregnancy by rubbing them with
a towel. This is painful and can actually damage the skin.
Nipple creams are either petroleum-based, alcohol-based, or lanolin.
Petroleum-based creams block the pores of the skin. Alcohol-based
creams actually dry the skin. Lanolin creams (even the pure ones)
may cause allergic reactions. Vitamin E oil on the nipple can
also cause allergic reactions, depending on the source of the
oil, and the baby may ingest excessive Vitamin E.