Congratulations!

I agree that the cream your friend was referring to was probably lanolin-based nipple cream. I used Lansinoh cream after each feed at the start and it was really worth it.

It's a really good suggestion to get a contact number from your local LLL so you have their details to hand should you need them in the first few days. Your local maternity hospital may also have a number for their lactation consultant if you need them.

In terms of preparation, I found it really helpful to attend my antenatal BF workshop (if there is one in your area). This gave me info on different positions for holding the baby and latching on properly. I also watched a couple of videos for latching tips. You might want to look at a couple of books as some of these have an introductory chapter on preparing for BFing. I also found it really helpful to take a few things into hospital with me for once the baby was born - a BFing cover, my Lansinoh cream and breast pads. As previous posters have said, also be prepared for frequent feeding in the early days so that your body can respond to your baby's milk needs. Hope all goes well for you!