There are times, mostly in the early weeks, when breastfeeding can cause discomfort, particularly when you have sore nipples. If you are concerned about it or it persists, talk to your health visitor or GP.

Nipple creams You can buy nipple creams and sprays designed to soothe cracked or sore nipples, although many mums find smearing a little breast milk over the nipple after a feed and leaving the breasts open to the air for a while is just as effective.

Tips for new Mothers Talk to your doctor about the important features of the various birth control methods. This will help you decide what birth control option is best for you at this point in your life.

If you are planning to use a cream, choose one (for example a homeopathic cream) that can be applied straight after feeding. This will allow it to be absorbed between feeds and reduces the chances of your baby finding your nipples slippery and having difficulty latching on. If there are still traces of the cream on your nipple, gently remove them before you start a feed.

Breast shells These are plastic, shell shaped containers that help to catch the milk leaking from the other breast while your are feeding.

Nipple shields If your nipples become very sore and are bleeding, a nipple shield may give temporary relief. This is a silicone, contoured nipple and breast cover which you feed your baby through. You should only use this as a short term solution, however, as it can cut the milk flow by half, and while some babies find them difficult to feed through, others become so used to the shield that they won’t feed without one. If the problem continues, seek help from your health visitor.