Over here, as I am sure they do in the rest of the world, they sell
Nipple cream.  I was given a tube with my first born, I still have
it, unopened (nearly 4 years now).  The back reads:
"To be used in the months leading up to the birth  and after each
breast feed.  It contains coca butter to lubricate and soften, and
aloe vera to help chafed skin.  Gently apply a small amount to the
nipples.  Remove traces of cream before breastfeeding."
Maybe we should ask them, or educate them about this one too?
Val in Busselton, Western Australia
RN RM IBCLC