The Bottom Line
Many describe breastfeeding as the most rewarding aspect of early motherhood. For me, the joy was overshadowed by extreme nipple pain, irritation, and infection. The suffering couldn’t arrive at a worse time, pushing me to consider transitioning to 100% formula feeding instead.
I tried over-the-counter creams, and while several helped soothe my pain temporarily, blisters lead to an infection, which in turn motivated research for stronger remedies. Ultimately I found a new telemedicine startup called Get APNO offering Rx nipple cream online that combines anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial ingredients into a single topical.
I wrote this review to share my honest experience using the cream—including how effective it was and whether or not it disrupted daily breastfeeding during application.
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First: What is APNO (All-Purpose Nipple Ointment)?
In general, APNO stands for All-Purpose Nipple Ointment. It’s a category of topical treatment (usually a cream) that’s uniquely designed to address the physical challenges mothers face during breastfeeding. Ignoring nipple pain or infections can lead to severe consequences, such as open wounds, mastitis (a painful breast infection), or recurring fungal infections like thrush, which can pass back and forth between the mother and baby. These complications not only disrupt the breastfeeding experience but can also affect milk supply and your baby’s nutrition.
While natural remedies like lanolin provide basic moisturization and temporary relief, they lack the active ingredients necessary to treat bacterial or fungal infections or reduce inflammation. Similarly, nipple shields, though helpful as a barrier to reduce friction and ease latching pain, only act as short-term remedies and sometimes interfere with milk transfer. These options may ease symptoms but don’t address the underlying causes, leaving mothers like me vulnerable to more serious complications.
Get APNO stands apart by offering comprehensive care. Its formulation combines anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties to actively treat infections, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Unlike shields or lanolin, APNO not only soothes pain but also prevents further complications, ensuring that breastfeeding remains a manageable and positive experience for both mother and baby.
APNO provides effective relief from:
- Cracked or bleeding nipples:
- Yeast infections (thrush)
- Bacterial infections and inflammation
How much does Get APNO cost?
Get APNO is priced at $135, which may seem higher than over-the-counter options like lanolin, but it delivers unmatched value. APNO targets the root causes of nipple pain, inflammation, and infections—issues that, if untreated, can disrupt breastfeeding entirely.
Plus, a single purchase offers a 90-day supply, making it a worthwhile investment for mothers planning to breastfeed for the recommended term (6-months).
Pros and Cons of Get APNO
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| All-in-one: treatment for pain, infections, and inflammation in one product. | Short-term: due to its prescription strength, it’s only intended to be used for a couple weeks |
| Baby-safe: no need to wash off before nursing. | Side effects: I didn’t experience any, but there’s potential for rare allergic reactions. |
| Convenient: I got a prescription online in less than 24 hours. | Higher cost: pricier than basic over-the-counter remedies like Lanolin, but I was willing to pay anything. Seriously. |
| Fast-acting: I saw noticeable improvements in just a few days. |
How is Get APNO different from over-the-counter nipple creams?
Get APNO stands out because of its pharmaceutical-grade formulation. Unlike over-the-counter creams that primarily focus on moisturization, APNO actively treats underlying issues that cause pain and discomfort. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Rx-strength: GetAPNO is a prescription-only ointment designed to address medical-grade concerns, not just surface-level dryness or irritation.
- Active ingredients: Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial components work together to reduce inflammation, treat infection, and accelerate healing.
- Holistic care: APNO nourishes and protects the skin while tackling potential wounds and infections, ensuring comprehensive relief.
Get APNO vs. Burt's Bees vs. Nemah | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $125 with code FERTILE | $10 | $24 |
| Active ingredients | Mupirocin Hydrocortisone Miconazole | ❌ | ❌ |
| Inactive ingredients | Shea Butter, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Coconut Fruit Extract, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, Pomegranate Sterols, Jojoba Seed Oil | Sunflower Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Wax, Tocopherol, Calendula Flower Extract, Olive Fruit Oil, Soybean Oil | Soybean Oil, Olive Fruit Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Mango Seed Butter, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Wax, Isostearyl Hydroxystearate, Sesame Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil, Rapeseed Seed Oil, Jojoba Esters, Jojoba Seed Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract, Calendula Flower Extract, Tocopherol |
| Formulated by doctors? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Fights bacteria? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Antifungal effect? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Reduces pain + inflamation? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Naturally nourishing? | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lanolin free? | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Parabens free? | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free doctor's visit? | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Free delivery? | ✅ Save $20 with code FERTILE | 🟡 On orders above $20 | 🟡 On orders above $65 |
| Website |
Get APNO Ingredients
Get APNO contains a powerful blend of active and inactive ingredients, each playing a crucial role in addressing the challenges breastfeeding mothers face. Here is a breakdown of the key components and how they contribute to APNO’s effectiveness:
Active Ingredients
- Mupirocin
Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic that combats bacterial infections commonly associated with cracked or broken skin on the nipples. By targeting bacterial growth, it prevents infections from worsening and supports the healing process, ensuring that mothers can breastfeed without discomfort or complications. - Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching. It works by calming irritated skin and alleviating the pain caused by inflammation or infections, allowing the skin to heal faster and with less discomfort. - Miconazole
Miconazole is an antifungal agent that effectively treats and prevents fungal infections such as thrush. Thrush is a common issue during breastfeeding, often causing pain for both the mother and the baby. Miconazole helps eliminate the fungal infection, providing relief and preventing its recurrence.
Inactive Ingredients
- Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Shea butter is a natural moisturizer known for its soothing and healing properties. It helps soften the skin, repair cracks, and maintain hydration, creating a protective barrier against further damage. - Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides
Derived from coconut oil, these triglycerides are lightweight emollients that enhance the spreadability of the ointment. They help lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated, which is essential for the healing process. - Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract
Coconut extract has natural antimicrobial properties and is rich in fatty acids that nourish the skin. It helps soothe irritated skin, reduce dryness, and support overall healing. - Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax
This emulsifier binds water and oil components, ensuring the ointment has a smooth, easy-to-apply texture. Beeswax also forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing further irritation or infection while locking in moisture. - Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Sterols
Pomegranate sterols are plant-based compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They support skin regeneration, helping to repair damaged tissue and restore the skin’s natural barrier function. - Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Jojoba oil closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it an excellent moisturizer. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and irritation, while its antimicrobial benefits protect against infections.
Why I Recommend GetAPNO
When I experienced excruciating nipple irritation, I tried many different creams. All were better than nothing, but as my cracked skin turned into infected lesions, I started to dread the torture chamber of breastfeeding. Get APNO stood out as a superior choice compared to other options available because it combined:
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All-in-oneScientifically formulated, Get APNO combines active ingredients like mupirocin, hydrocortisone, and miconazole with a unique base of clean, safe ingredients. Unlike the versions made by traditional compounding pharmacies, which can vary in quality and safety for moms and babies, APNO’s proprietary formula is designed specifically for breastfeeding mothers. This ensures consistent, high-quality care that prioritizes both efficacy and safety.
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Quick AccessThe traditional process of obtaining Rx APNO can be exhausting for new mothers. Lactation consultants often recommend it, but cannot prescribe prescription meds, leaving mothers to schedule a doctor’s visit and then locate a compounding pharmacy. Get APNO eliminates these challenges by offering an online consultation process. A licensed doctor reviews your case and prescribes ointment within 24 hours. With free expedited shipping, you can have it delivered directly to your door, saving precious time and energy I couldn’t afford to waste.
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Clean IngredientsGet APNO is free of artificial fragrances, parabens, dyes, and lanolin. These carefully selected components provide hydration and healing without irritation, ensuring safety for both mother and baby. This focus on gentle, non-toxic ingredients makes APNO an excellent choice for sensitive skin while maintaining its effectiveness for nipple pain and infections.
Is Get APNO Safe?
Get APNO is designed with both mother and baby in mind. Its low-dose formulation ensures a low rate of undesired effects. The ointment is absorbed by the mother’s skin, eliminating the need to wipe it off before the next nursing session. While APNO is generally safe and effective, it’s important to talk to your prescribing physician about potential side effects.
Potential Side Effects
- Mild irritation or sensitivity: Some users may experience redness, itching, or a slight burning sensation at the application site. These symptoms are usually temporary.
- Allergic reactions: Rare but possible, especially for individuals allergic to any of the active or inactive ingredients. Symptoms may include swelling or worsening irritation.
- Skin thinning: Prolonged or excessive use of hydrocortisone-containing products can lead to thinning of the skin, so follow the prescribed usage guidelines.
Who Shouldn’t Use APNO?
- Those with known allergies to active ingredients (mupirocin, hydrocortisone, or miconazole) or inactive components like shea butter or jojoba oil.
- Mothers with severe or systemic infections (e.g., mastitis) that require oral or intravenous antibiotics.
Verdict: Does Get APNO Work?
Get APNO is a standout for breastfeeding mothers dealing with worsening nipple pain, irritation, or infections. Its evidence-backed formulation combines pharmaceutical-grade active ingredients with safe, nourishing components, offering targeted relief while promoting healing. Unlike over-the-counter alternatives that I tried, it tackled the root causes of my discomfort, such as bacterial and fungal infections, while protecting and soothing sensitive skin – leaving me with vastly improved skin after just two applications.
While it was extremely effective in offering relief FAST, what makes Get APNO truly exceptional is its accessibility. By offering an online consultation and free expedited shipping, there’s no need to waste precious time gambling with compounded pharmacies that require multiple in-person steps. This streamlined process ensures that mothers like me can access effective care without unnecessary delays.
For mothers seeking a solution that is not only effective but also safe and convenient, Get APNO checks all the boxes. It supports the physical and emotional demands of breastfeeding, providing fast relief and allowing mothers to focus on bonding with their newborn. With its proven efficacy, clean ingredients, I couldn’t recommend Get APNO enough.
FAQs
How do I use APNO?
Apply a thin layer of APNO to the affected areas after each breastfeeding session or as directed by your healthcare provider. Gently massage the ointment into the skin to ensure proper absorption.
How long should I use APNO?
Use APNO until your nipples are pain-free, then gradually reduce the amount you use over the next 7 to 10 days. You should notice improvement within a few days. APNO is intended for short-term use, so consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
Is APNO better than lanolin?
Yes, APNO offers more comprehensive care compared to lanolin. While lanolin provides basic moisturization, APNO addresses multiple underlying issues like bacterial, fungal infections, and inflammation with its pharmaceutical-grade active ingredients.
Do you wash off APNO before nursing?
No, it is not necessary to wash off APNO before nursing. The ointment is formulated with baby-safe ingredients, making it safe for your infant during breastfeeding. However, follow your doctor’s instructions for specific use.
Is there a discount or promo code for GetAPNO?
Save $20 with code FERTILE at checkout on getapno.com
