Reddit mentions of Ameda Breast Shell System

In addition to the other great ideas you got already, I wanted to add one more thing that worked for me in early months: Ameda Breast Shells. They are these little plastic doohickeys (that's my technical term) with that can either help draw out inverted nipples (not what I used them for), or help shield tender nipples. It's basic keeps nipples exposed only to air (no rubbing on pads/against clothing or bras), and were a lifesaver for me. That plus lanolin really helped me get through the first month or so of nursing.