Apply nipple cream before pumping?

hibiscus29

I have been using a pump in style with no pain whatsoever, but recently started using a hospital grade pump (lactina) and the pain at the beginning of my session is excruciating.  It burns so badly around the areola.  I quit using nipple cream a while back and had only been applying it after pumping, but i am wondering if i should start applying it before pumping now?  Does anyone apply the cream just prior to pumping?  I am not sure if my flanges are the wrong size, but the fact that the pump in style didn't give me any problems, i am inclined to say no?