Carey, Boston Not too many years ago, the answer to that question would include a variety of suggestions, all designed to decrease the risk of sore nipples. Thankfully, we know more about preventing sore nipples, and that the very things that were being suggested to toughen the nipples only made them MORE likely to get sore. The major cause for sore nipples is poor positioning of your baby at your breast. When the positioning is corrected, the pain goes away. There's no need to use soap to wash them, and, in fact, soap can dry the skin.
Clear water is enough.
If you find your nipples seem to be dry, it is okay to use a mild skin cream during pregnancy. After your baby is born, you'll want to only use something that won't have to be washed off before the baby nurses, such as an ultrapure lanolin like Lansinoh for Breastfeeding Mothers. Many women experience sore nipples, but most do so unnecessarily. All Rights Reserved. Please read the important disclaimer regarding material presented on this site and our Privacy Policy Statement .