Becoming a new mom is an incredible experience, but it can also be accompanied by discomfort during the postpartum period. One of the best-kept secrets for postpartum care is the use of padsicles, a homemade, soothing remedy that can provide immense relief. Here's a guide on how to make and use padsicles, offering comfort and healing to new moms.
What Are Padsicles?
Padsicles are essentially sanitary pads that have been enhanced with soothing ingredients and then frozen. They provide cooling relief and can help reduce swelling and discomfort, especially after a vaginal delivery.
Ingredients and materials needed:
- Maxi pads (unscented and without wings work best)
- Witch hazel (alcohol-free)
- Aloe vera gel (pure and free from additives)
- Lavender essential oil (optional)
- Aluminum foil or plastic wrap
- Freezer-safe bags or containers
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Padsicles
- Prepare Your Workspace: Start by laying out all the materials and ingredients. It's best to work on a clean, flat surface.
- Open the Maxi Pads: Carefully open the Maxi Pads, but do not detach them from their wrappers. This will make it easier to rewrap and freeze them.
- Apply Aloe Vera Gel: Spread a generous amount of aloe vera gel along the length of the pad. Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties, making it perfect for postpartum healing.
- Add Witch Hazel: Sprinkle witch hazel over the aloe vera gel. Witch hazel helps reduce swelling and provides a cooling sensation. Ensure that the witch hazel is alcohol-free to avoid any irritation.
- Add Lavender Oil (Optional): For an added calming effect, you can put a few drops of lavender essential oil on the pad. Lavender is known for its soothing properties and can also provide a pleasant scent.
- Refold and Wrap: Once you have applied all the ingredients, refold the padsicles in their original wrappers. Be gentle to ensure the mixture stays on the pad.
- Wrap for Freezing: Wrap each pad in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This step is crucial to prevent the padsicles from sticking to each other in the freezer.
- Freeze: Place the wrapped padsicles in a freezer-safe bag or container and then freeze them. They will need a few hours to freeze completely.
- Use: When ready to use, take a padsicle out of the freezer and let it thaw for a few minutes before use. The padsicle should be cold but not frozen solid to avoid any skin damage.
Tips for Use
- Use padsicles in rotation with regular pads to avoid overcooling the area.
- Always do a skin test before applying the padsicle to check for any sensitivity, especially if you are using essential oils.
- Consult with your healthcare provider before using padsicles, especially if you have concerns about your postpartum recovery.
Padsicles are a simple yet effective way to find relief from postpartum discomfort. They are easy to make and can be a soothing addition to your postpartum care routine.
Remember, every new mom's recovery journey is unique, and it's important to do what feels right for you and your body. With padsicles, many new moms find a gentle and natural way to ease their recovery and focus on the joy of their new arrival.
