I didn't want to read and run hun, i didn't do anything to prepare nipples for bf.
If baby not latching on properly then it can cause pain and discoomfort, it may be worthwhile looking into any local support groups such as la leche, nct, and i think our sure start also has a bf group, to maybe get help in early stages.
I was just going to say the same as Caroline. If you want you can use lasinoh on your boobs prior to the birth but this isn't really proven to work. Instead what I recommend is to stock up on supplies such as lasinoh, ice packs, nipple shells etc to help you through the difficult bit. But the best thing you can do is get a network of support around you. Find out where your local breastfeeding support group is and ion what day they meet. Also arrange for a counseller or peer support to come round and check your latch is correct.
The main thing is to remember that the first few weeks are the toughest. Baby will feed very frequently - this is normal, not a sign you are not producing enough milk. Baby will also go through a number of growth spurts so the feeding will increase but will soon settle down. With breastfeeding it is always best to feed on demand, and with a toddler that will be tough for you. Perhaps think about getting a "special box" for Rebecca, with cool toys, books etc in it that she plays with only when you are feeding, then she too has her time with you.
I am rambling as am tired but make use of all the breastfeeders on here, they are a great source of support.
I also copied this from a post by Hypnorm ages ago, there are some great resources here
Links to various breast feeding site and support groups:-
Links that might help Mums
I don't know of any preparation for your nips but definitely ask your MW if she has any bfing videos you can borrow to get a really good idea of a good latch. If you want to give it a go then ask if your MW in hospital to help you with every latch so you know it's a good latch and prevent the cracked nipples.
I really understand how sore you were, I was a wreck for weeks after O's birth but had good support in my town. Personally I find the BF support through the NHS pretty crap up here but like Beanie says use the forum for help and contact the bf helplines at first sign of trouble - they will come to your house to help if need be.
hi kx if they do get cracked and sore was told to squeeze them so you get a bit of milk out and rub it over the nipple its supposed to keep them supple or something but i remeber the pain of brestfeeding with my first it last for around 10 seconds when they latch on and last for up to 2 weeks but when i had my second baby didnt hurt at all the only thing that did was i could feel my womb contracting (going back) and that was painful like having contractions again but not as painful have a go again hun but make sure baby is latching on properly as you shouldnt be in pain all the time you can also get nipple sheilds that will protect the nipple from becoming cracked and sore
KX I still got a bit sore this time round, I think that maybe it's a bit inevitable when they're tiny, your nipples are soft and not used to how strong a newborn can feed! But it was a lot easier. I did always feel a slight 'oooh' when he latched for the first 3 odd weeks but that faded.
Can only echo what the others have said and say make sure you have lots of support around you and time to get it right at first. I got frustrated trying to hold Alex 'properly' (how the MW showed me) and after a couple weeks went with what felt comfortable to me!
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