Avoid cracked nipples in breastfeeding......

Yes, all the midwives and breastfeeding associations say you just need to put breast milk on your nipples to help prevent them cracking and heal the cracks - that is nature's way.

Well, for me and for many of my friends, it was never enough and it was definitely a well talked about topic in our Mothers' Group when the babies were newborns.

I found that bepanthan was great - put on before and after a feed, but just use a wet face washer to wipe them before baby feeds and do the milk think as well.

Sorbelene was ok but not heavy enough.

Also, whilst you are pregnant you could use this recipe to help: (also taken from Nerys Purcheson's "Handbook of Aromatherapy")

2 tablespoons calendula infused oil or sweet almond oil

1 teaspoon wheat germ oil

10 drops carrot essential oil

15 drops chamomile essential oil

Mix all the oils together in a small bottle and shake to blend.  Leave for 4 days before using so the oils have time to synergise or combine well.

Massage the oil well into the nipples and surrounding area in a firm but gentle squeezing motion.  Wash all traces of oil away thoroughly before breast-feeding your baby.

So dont leave yourself open to the pain!  Be prepared!  Cracked nipples when feeding just take the beauty out of the whole breastfeeding experience.