What You Need To Know 

Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful ways to bond with your baby. But if your nipples are sore or cracked, it can become a painful chore. These tips can help you keep enjoying these precious moments with your child. 

AVOID  

• Lanolin is a natural wax found in sheep wool so you’d think it would be safe. But sheep are usually sprayed with pesticides to kill mites and other pests, meaning the lanolin may contain pesticide residues. Lanolin is also known as a contact allergen, meaning it can cause a bad reaction by over-activating the immune system after penetrating the skin. 

• Petroleum jelly (also referred to as petrolatum or mineral oil) are all derived from petroleum. During the refinement process, the carcinogenic contaminants are said to be removed, but some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which increase cancer risk, may remain. In short, these products are not something you want on your body or in your baby’s mouth.  

• Synthetic fragrances contain phthalates to boost the scent’s staying power. The phthalate commonly used in fragrance products is  diethyl phthalate, or  DEP. Sometimes this won’t be listed, so be cautious if you simply see ‘fragrance’ as an ingredient. Some phthalates are known to be carcinogenic and others may contribute to reproductive and neurodevelopmental problems. 

• Two pure essential oils, tea tree and lavender, often added for fragrance, have been shown to have estrogenic properties that could impact reproductive health. Other essential oils have not been tested for these properties so it is unknown whether or not that’s a concern. 

BETTER CHOICES 

Ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, beeswax, coconut oil or shea butter (ideally organic and without any fragrances, preservatives or other additives) can be good alternatives. That said, it’s always a good idea to wipe these off before your baby nurses because you never know if your baby has any particular sensitivities.  

DIY 

You can find a variety of nipple cream recipes are on line, but just make sure of the purity of the ingredients and that they contain no fragrances or other additives.