After labor is over you are likely to feel elated and very, very sore. If you have had a baby before you know just what I am talking about. If you haven’t had a baby before expect to feel incredibly sore.
When I had my first baby I was really surprised at how uncomfortable it was to sit after giving birth. My butt was so sore!
This soreness is caused by all the pushing you do to get that baby out! If you tear or have an episiotomy that will also contribute to more tenderness and pain down in your nether regions.
The solution? Enter padsicles!
Padsicles are basically just a menstrual pad turned into a popsicle for your vagina.
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In case you didn’t know, you will be wearing a pad for weeks after childbirth. You are going to bleed and bleed and bleed. So why not make some pads that serve the dual purpose of being an icepack for your lady parts?!
You need this, you want this! Girl, you ARE welcome!
What will you need to make these EASY DIY Padsicles?
You don’t need much to make padsicles and you can grab it all on Amazon or at your local pharmacy!
Witch Hazel (with or without alcohol)
Witch Hazel has been used for centuries to cure all sorts of ailments. During postpartum recovery, it is most helpful for treating the inflammation that comes from the pain and swelling in your perineum. It can also help repair skin and fight bacteria.
Buying Witch Hazel with alcohol can help fight germs, and will be incredibly cooling on your perineum. My first choice for Witch Hazel with Alcohol is defintely this one.
You can choose to use alcohol-free witch hazel if you prefer. The most common one around is Thayers Witch Hazel. It’s frequently recommended to be used for post-partum padsicles.
Alovera
Alovera is cooling and moisturizing to skin that is burned or rashy. In the case of postpartum care Alovera will provide a little extra TLC to your nether regions! Here are 3 great options for Alovera that you can pick up on Amazon.
Large Menstrual Pads
You know what pads you like. Just buy the pads you usually like in the heaviest flow option they have. If you don’t normally buy or use pads then I would suggest these.
To be honest, for the first couple of days postpartum I preferred to use adult diapers. Things get gross down there and it was nice to not have to worry about changing out pads frequently or ruining underwear.
You can insert your DIY Padsicles right into the adult diapers. It’s seriously the best!
Note: Additional Essential Oils for Oily Mamas
If you are already an oily mama or want to be an oily mama read on for some postpartum oils!
You can also add 10-15 drops of lavender oil to your padsicle. Lavender has many benefits inlcuding being antimicrobial, soothing, and extremely calming.
I prefer to use Young Living Oils because of their quality control. If you want more information on how to order Young Living Oils or want to join my Young Living family check out this post. love Young Living and promise there is nothing weird about this super amazing company.
Have I ever steered you wrong before?
Oh also! Young Living also carries a product called Claraderm which is a perineum spray that helps prevent tearing and promotes healing postpartum. This spray is seriously a lifesaver!
Sandwich Size Ziploc Bags
You will need to to store your Padsicles in a Ziploc bag in the freezer so make sure to pick some up if you don’t already have them.
Step By Step Guide for Making Padsicles
Step 1: Unfold the pad but be sure leave the plastic liner on the backside because you are going to fold it up again when you are finished.
Step 2: Smear the pad from front to back with a nice thin layer Aloe Vera.
Step 3: Apply 3 TBSP of Witch Hazel to the center of the pad.
Step 4: Add Essential Oils if desired.
Step 5: Wrap the Pad back up and place it in a Ziploc bag.
Step 6: Store in the freezer until ready to use. (Let pad sit for a minute or two on the counter before using)
Padsicle Alternatives
If you don’t want to go through the work of making padsicles.(Even though they take 5 minutes to make!) There are a few alternatives you can buy.
Witch Hazel Pads
Witch Hazel Pads can be used in lieu of a padsicle but keep in mind that you will actually have to gently touch your perineum with it which can be a really daunting task.
You can also line your regular pad with the witch hazel pads to create a makeshift padsicle. (It won’t be frozen but it will provide some of the benefits)
Witch Hazel Pad Liners
These cooling pad liners will fit most menstrual pads. They cover the inside of your pad to provide the cooling benefits of witch hazel. I highly suggest you grab a pack to have on hand!
Perineal Ice Packs
You are likely to use similar ice packs in the hospital. Be sure to ask your nurse if you can take some home as well. But in the likely event that you need more, these are a great option.
Frida Mom Post Partum Recovery Pack
This clever pack basically wraps up the above items in one convenient package. It comes with 4 disposable underwear options, 4 ice maxi padsicle pads, 24 perineal cooling pad liners, and perineal healing foam. This starter kit is sure to provide pain relief and cleansing while recovering from childbirth.
Or you can buy this set and also get a perineal spray bottle, socks, and a nursing gown. A perfect one stop shop for your hospital bag!
There you have it! Everything you need to make your postpartum healing as comfortable as possible! Good luck and ice on!
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