Sore boobs...

How do you ladies deal with sore boobs during breastfeeding/pumping? I am a FTM and have been pumping and breast feeding because my son is still in the hospital. I have the lanolin cream, but was just wondering if there were any other tips/tricks to helping my nipples be less sore?  Also, when my boobs get rock hard does that mean it's time to pump? Any advice will help! Thanks!