Breastfeeding discomfort is a significant problem for many women, especially nipple pain. Many women cite nipple pain as the main reason they stop breastfeeding. If you are dealing with nipple pain or cracked or bleeding nipples, you may be wondering what products you can use to help make nursing more comfortable.

Lanolin cream is a nipple cream often used to help cope with this breastfeeding problem. Read on to find out if lanolin is safe for mothers and babies while breastfeeding, how to use it to reduce pain while breastfeeding, and when it's time to see a professional.

Lanolin cream is safe to use on intact skin while breastfeeding and is non-toxic for both mother and baby. You do not have to wipe it off or remove it before your baby breastfeeds.

How to Use

You can apply lanolin cream or paste directly onto your nipples or any affected areas on your areola anytime you are experiencing nipple pain, or as a preventive measure. You can safely apply the cream to cracked and bleeding areas, but any open areas may need additional time to heal.

Because you don't have to wipe it off before feeding, you can apply the cream before you nurse, leave it on during your baby's breastfeeding session, and apply it after nursing as well. If you use lanolin before breastfeeding, however, apply it 10 to 15 minutes before your baby is going to nurse to give it time to absorb into your skin.

If it does stain your clothing or blankets, you can use a grease-fighting soap to soak and wash the fabric to remove the stain. You should store your lanolin cream in a cool, dry place. If it is exposed to warmer temperatures, the cream may liquefy. The cream can still be used, but you might want to allow it to turn back into a solid at cooler temperatures.