Postpartum Padsicles
Postpartum padsicles are a popular DIY remedy for new mothers recovering from childbirth. They are simple to make, affordable, and can provide soothing relief for soreness, swelling, and pain in the perineal area. I used these after I had my daughter almost 10 years ago and honestly they are a life saver. Read on to learn how they work, why you should use them and how to make them.
What Are Postpartum Padsicles?
Postpartum padsicles are essentially frozen pads that have been soaked in various soothing and healing ingredients. They are designed to be worn in the underwear after childbirth and can help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain in the perineal area. They can also provide a cooling and numbing effect, which can be very soothing for new mothers who are dealing with postpartum discomfort.
Supplies:
- Pads: Buy the biggest bulkiest overnight ones you can find. Or use Depends. I couldn't quite bring myself to purchase Depends because I embarrass easily but I have heard they work well postpartum
- Witch Hazel: Available at the drugstore. It is a natural antiseptic. Be warned, it kind of stinks really bad. They make witch hazel with different infusions like rose that smell better but since I mixed it with the other ingredients that would hide the smell, I just bought the cheap stuff.
- Aloe gel: Find this in the same section of the drugstore you buy sunscreen.
- Essential oils: I used lavender. Tea tree is also good. Choose something with soothing, calming and antiseptic properties.
Time needed: 10 minutes.
How to Make Postpartum Pads with Aloe and Witch Hazel
- Open the pad
Take a pad and open it carefully making sure to preserve the plastic cover.
- Add witch hazel
Pour a couple teaspoons of witch hazel directly onto the pad.
- Add Aloe
Once the witch hazel has absorbed (it only takes a few seconds) squirt on a 2 tablespoons of aloe and press it into the pad with a spoon.
- Add Essential oils
You can drop a small amount of essential oils like lavender or tea tree. Choose something with soothing properties. You can skip this step if you like.
- Wrap it up
Carefully wrap the pad up and place it in the freezer. Keep them in the freezer in a Ziplock bag until you are ready to use it. Make about a dozen to start with and have them ready to go before you go into labor.
Here is a list of the other items I have picked up for myself for postpartum relief:
- Baggy sweatpants with a loose waistband
- Gigantic underwear a couple sizes bigger than I normally wear to fit the gigantic pads
- Gel ice packs
- Epsom salts for the bath
- Dermoplast numbing spray and topical numbing spray.
- Extra pads
- DIY baby wipes
How to Use Postpartum Padsicles
To use postpartum padsicles, simply take them out of the freezer and allow them to thaw for a few minutes before use. You can then wear them in your underwear as you would a regular pad. The cold temperature will provide a numbing and soothing effect, while the witch hazel, aloe vera, and lavender will help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
It is important to note that postpartum padsicles should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. If you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort after childbirth, you should consult with your healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
Postpartum padsicles are a simple and effective DIY remedy that can help new mothers recover from childbirth more comfortably. By combining witch hazel, aloe vera, lavender essential oil, and maxi pads, you can create a soothing and healing pad that can provide relief from postpartum discomfort.
FAQ
Many women choose to use them for several weeks after they give birth. You can use them as long as you like.
They will last 6 months to a year in the freezer
If you can find one of these ingredients you can skip it. The main thing that makes these pads feel so nice is that they are cold. You could just add a teaspoon of water to the pad and freeze it If need be.
I suggest leaving them at home. The hospital probably doesn’t have a place for you to store them where they will stay frozen. You will likely not be in the hospital for very long so its best to save them for when you return home.
Leanne T says
Did you use the same kind of witch hazel in your picture? Just wondering too because I bought the same kind and it does have 14% alcohol in it if you look in the back. But if you used it and it didn't sting I would try it too!
Adrienne Audrey says
They didn't sting at all and they worked great! I'm not sure about the witch hazel you are using. Is it mixed with other ingredients because I don't think the witch hazel I used had any alcohol in it!
Rachel says
Did these sting at all? I have the same witch hazel just wondering because it obtains 14% alcohol. I need to make some, I'm due in 2 weeks 🙂