all-purpose nipple ointment

All-purpose nipple ointment

All-purpose nipple ointment (APNO) is a compounded medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat nipple pain and damage in breastfeeding mamas. It typically contains a combination of antibiotics, antifungals, and anti-inflammatory agents to address various issues like soreness, infections, and inflammation. For more information, visit healing sore nipples.

What to watch out for

When using all-purpose nipple ointment, keep the following in mind:

1. Prescription: APNO is a prescription medication, so you need to consult a healthcare professional to get it. Do not use or create homemade versions without professional guidance. In most locations, it needs to be purchased at a compounding pharmacy.
2. Application: Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional for application. Typically, you’ll apply a small amount to your nipples after each feeding.
3. Side effects: Monitor for any side effects, such as increased redness, itching, or irritation. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using the ointment and consult your healthcare provider.
4. Length of use: Because APNO contains a steroid, it is not appropriate for long-term use. Long-term use of topical steroids can eventually lead to skin-thinning and increase the risk of damage. Many healthcare professionals only recommend using it for 5-10 days at a time but consult directly with your prescribing provider for your specific situation.

If you do not see improvement in your nipple condition after using APNO as prescribed, seek further advice from a lactation consultant or healthcare professional.

Physical limitations or health circumstances

Certain conditions might affect the use of APNO:

1. Allergies: If you have allergies to any of the ingredients in APNO, inform your healthcare provider. They can create a formulation that avoids those allergens.
2. Pre-existing skin conditions: If you have skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, discuss the use of APNO with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you.

Other terms

• Nipple balm: A soothing ointment applied to the nipples to relieve pain, dryness, and cracking. It can be used for general relief and maintenance, and is more appropriate for long-term use. Learn more about nipple balm.
• Hydrogel pads: Cooling pads applied to the nipples to provide relief from soreness and irritation. They can be used alongside APNO for added comfort. Learn more about hydrogel pads.
• Cracked nipples: When the skin on your nipples becomes dry and cracks, causing pain. APNO helps heal and prevent infections in cracked nipples. Learn more about healing cracked nipples.
• Proper latch: Ensure your baby latches correctly to the breast, which can help prevent nipple pain and damage, reducing the need for ointments. Learn more about proper latch.