The Essence of DIY Padsicles

Padsicles are essentially sanitary pads that have been enhanced with natural healing and cooling agents such as witch hazel, aloe vera gel, and optionally, essential oils. Once prepared, these pads are frozen and then used as needed to provide relief from swelling, pain possibly as the result of stiches and perineal tears, or discomfort in the perineal area postpartum following vaginal delivery. The concept is simple yet effective, combining the absorbency of maxi pads with the healing properties of the chosen ingredients​.

Crafting Your Padsicles: A Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Required

• Chlorine-free, unscented overnight maxi pads: These are recommended for their thickness, durability, and the absence of chemicals that could irritate sensitive postpartum skin​.
• Witch hazel: Opt for an alcohol-free version to avoid irritation, as it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and aid in healing​​.
• Organic aloe vera gel: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera promotes skin healing and offers immediate relief​.
• Essential oils (optional): Lavender or frankincense oils are popular choices for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties​.

Preparation Steps

1. Initiate with the Maxi Pads: Unfold a pad but keep it attached to its wrapper. This facilitates easy re-packaging once the pad is prepared.
2. Apply Aloe Vera Gel: Spread a generous amount of aloe vera gel over the entire length of the pad. The gel acts as a moisturizer and aids in the healing process.
3. Enhance with Witch Hazel: Use a spray bottle to apply witch hazel over the aloe vera. If you're including essential oils, add a few drops to the witch hazel in the spray bottle before application​.
4. Repackage and Freeze: Refold the pad in its original wrapper. Store the prepared padsicles in freezer storage bags and place them in the freezer until needed.

Utilization and Benefits

• Ease of Use: When required, simply remove a padsicle from the freezer, let it sit for a few minutes to slightly thaw, and use it as you would a regular sanitary pad​.
• Healing and Comfort: Padsicles offer a dual function—absorbing postpartum bleeding while simultaneously reducing inflammation and soothing sore tissues​.
• Natural Ingredients: The choice of natural ingredients like witch hazel and aloe vera gel ensures that the healing process is gentle, minimizing the risk of irritation or discomfort​​.

An Alternative to DIY Padsicles: Off-the-Shelf Instant Perineal Cold Packs

While creating your own padsicles can be a rewarding and customized approach to postpartum healing, not everyone has the time, resources, or inclination to DIY. For those looking for a more immediate and hassle-free solution, off-the-shelf instant perineal cold packs present a convenient alternative. These pre-made cold packs are specifically designed for postpartum use, offering immediate relief with minimal preparation and are ideal to add to your maternity checklist alongside other essentials such as a peri bottle.

Creating padsicles is a straightforward, DIY approach to postpartum care that leverages the healing powers of natural ingredients. By preparing a batch in advance, new mothers can ensure they have a ready supply of soothing relief to aid in their recovery. While padsicles are not a cure-all, they represent a simple, effective method to ease the discomforts associated with the early days of motherhood.