When I had my first child, I expected pregnancy to be uncomfortable and labor to be intense. What caught me off guard was how difficult breastfeeding can be in the first few days!
While it’s worth it, the initial discomfort can be challenging. Ensuring a good latch helps, but it didn’t make the process painless for me. During the first week of nursing, I had to mentally prepare for the discomfort.
If you’ve breastfed, you may relate to this. And if you haven’t yet but plan to, consider this a heads-up!
Nipple Cream
After having my first child, I tried lanolin cream, but it made things worse because I was allergic to lanolin! This led me to seek alternative solutions for relief.
Why Not Lanolin?
Researching homemade nipple balm led me to avoid lanolin due to my allergy. Lanolin, derived from sheep’s wool, can contain pesticide residue that may pose risks to newborns.
While some consider lanolin safe, I preferred natural alternatives for my babies’ delicate skin.
A Natural Nipple Cream
To ease discomfort during nursing, I experimented with a natural nipple cream. I prioritized safe, natural ingredients to minimize allergic reactions.
Choosing Safe Ingredients
In my DIY nipple cream recipe, I avoided potential allergens like almond oil, beeswax, and coconut oil. I also omitted essential oils for internal use.
Nipple Cream Ingredients
I used safe ingredients like infused oil, cocoa butter, chamomile, and calendula flowers to create a soothing balm for sore nipples.
A Note on Consistency
The nipple cream has a soft texture for easy application. Adjust the cocoa butter content for a firmer consistency, but be cautious of potential allergic reactions.
Nipple Cream Instructions
Infuse the herbs into olive oil and strain out the residue. Combine oils to create the balm and store it in a glass jar or tin for use after nursing sessions.
DIY Nipple Cream Recipe
This recipe creates a moisturizing nursing balm that is safe for both moms and babies. You can adjust the ingredients for desired consistency and effectiveness.
Use the nipple cream after nursing sessions to prevent soreness and provide relief.
Have you used nipple cream or lanolin before? Share your experiences!