I hope I don't get flamed for this question but I have to ask. I certainly  
DON"T believe this to be true.  Let me explain the scenario. New workplace,  
new colleagues, one of whom I was "shadowing" on Friday. Working with a new mom  
with sore nipples (abrasions on tips of both). Third baby - said "this 
happened  with the last two" as well. I suggested some position and latch on changes 
 (asymmetric) and she said it felt much better. The other LC "explained" how  
nipples toughen up after a few days of nursing and actually said that a 
"callus"  forms.  Now I have always believed that the nipples get "stretchier" 
after  the prolactin levels increase and that's why it feels better after a few 
days.  (i have seen this "stretchiness" when the baby pulls back off the 
breast.) The  rationale for lanolin use in my opinion is that it provides some 
"flexibility"  and protection to the nipple skin when tender. After we were done, in 
a  quiet moment, I respectfully disagreed with her and explained my position. 
She  said "that's what I learned in my training" so I asked her for a source 
and  reference. Now I'm hunting for information to support mine.
I have nursed two children and helped thousands of women with breastfeeding  
and have never seen a "callus" on the nipple. Could someone please help me out 
 with this one?
Mary Kay Smith, RN, IBCLC
Canton MI USA

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