Preparing for breastfeeding...

[Mommie22]

My nipples were completely flat when my 5 year old was born and nursing was extremely painful. I was persistent and he ended up nursing until he was almost 3 but only off of one breast. I want to avoid the pain this time around. Neither of my nipples pokes out when I pinch them, but the one he nursed from protrudes more. Is there anything I can be doing now to help me out when this baby is born in February? I really want to nurse with both breasts this time. 

[lunabin]

I'm going through something similar, but actually exclusively pumped for my first.  This time, I am going to a lactation consultant during my 3rd trimester to get some professional advice before the baby gets here.  

I've heard that you can wear breast shells before baby is born to help the nipple protrude more.  Someone also suggested pumping a little, but I'm worried that might trigger contractions.  

I also went to the library, and have been reading up in every Bf'ing book I can find about flat/inverted nipples and what to do.  That may be the best place to start.