Embarking on the journey of motherhood comes with unexpected challenges, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. While many expect physical discomfort during pregnancy and emotional challenges after birth, the hurdles of nursing can often take new mothers by surprise. The truth is, the first few days of breastfeeding may not be as effortless as many anticipate, but understanding these challenges can better prepare you for this intimate experience.
Breastfeeding is undoubtedly rewarding, but it can be quite uncomfortable initially. Ensuring a proper latch can ease some pain, yet many mothers still find the first week to be a real adjustment period. For those who share these experiences, I empathize deeply. For those planning to breastfeed in the future, I wish I had been forewarned!
Nipple Cream
During the challenging days of trying to establish breastfeeding, I received advice from a lactation consultant to use lanolin cream. However, after trying it, my experience took a turn for the worse: I discovered I was allergic. This led me to wonder about alternatives that could provide relief without risking allergies.
Why Not Lanolin?
As I navigated my postpartum journey, the choice to avoid lanolin became clear. My research unveiled that lanolin, derived from sheep’s wool, might pose risks for some individuals. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding pesticide residues that could linger in both the wool and subsequently in breast milk. Given that many sheep receive treatments for pests, potential exposure to these chemicals is a valid concern for nursing mothers.
Some experts argue that lanolin is safe, but I was not willing to take any chances given the importance of purity in what my newborn would eventually consume. Additionally, many popular nipple creams on the market rely on concentrated lanolin, which, while effective for healing, might expose infants to unwanted substances.
A Natural Nipple Cream
Determined to improve my experience with breastfeeding during my subsequent pregnancies, I began crafting a natural nipple cream that would provide comfort while ensuring safety for my little ones. In my research, I discovered a variety of pre-made options available, but I opted to create my own blend with ingredients I felt comfortable using. If you’re also considering a store-bought alternative, several reputable brands have emerged recently.
Choosing Safe Ingredients
Since a nipple cream is absorbed by a nursing baby, I focused on safe and natural ingredients with minimal risk of allergic reactions. Therefore, I decided against including almond oil, beeswax, and coconut oil, despite their popularity in many skincare products. I also refrained from using essential oils, as their safe internal use in infants is still a topic of debate.
Nipple Cream Ingredients
To minimize any potential risks, I used the following ingredients in my homemade nipple cream:
A Note on Consistency
I found that a softer salve was easier to apply, so I tailored the consistency to meet that need. If you prefer a firmer product, you can simply increase the amount of cocoa butter. Though adding beeswax is also an option, I chose to avoid it due to potential allergy risks.
Nipple Cream Instructions
The first step in creating this soothing balm is infusing herbs into olive oil, which preserves their beneficial properties. Here are three methods for achieving this:
- Solar Infusion – This method involves placing 1/4 cup of chamomile and calendula flowers along with 2 tablespoons of marshmallow root and 1 cup of olive oil in a mason jar and letting it sit in sunlight for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily.
- Time Infusion – Same proportions as the solar method, but kept in a shaded location. This takes 2-4 weeks, with daily shaking.
- Heat Infusion – For a quicker option, place the same proportions of ingredients in a double boiler and heat gently for 2-3 hours until fragrant and slightly colored.
Once infused, strain out the herbs using a metal strainer lined with cheesecloth, keeping the oil for your cream. If you’re looking to make just one batch, you can use the following ratios:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon each of chamomile and calendula flowers
- 2 teaspoons of marshmallow root
DIY Nipple Cream – This moisturizing nursing balm is designed to soothe sore, cracked nipples while being safe for babies.
- This balm will have a soft texture and may not firm up entirely; if desired, you can add more cocoa butter for a firmer consistency.
- Leftover infused oil can be repurposed for lotions and other applications.
How to Use Nipple Cream – I preferred to apply this immediately after nursing to alleviate soreness and provide moisture where needed.
Have you used a nipple cream or lanolin? How did it work for you?
