Oh those postpartum days. They are bliss-filled, so precious, and, definitely, very painful. Despite having a new baby to snuggle and care for, you also have your body to heal. From delivering the placenta, to potential catheters, to peri bottles, and that inevitable first bowel movement, lady bits take quite the beating. So, take note, the more you attend to all that has occurred down there right away the better your postpartum days will be.
Vaginal tearing, bleeding, and sometimes stitches are a normal part of postpartum and thus, it’s important to give yourself all the healing opportunities you can. Enter padsicles!
This DIY is more than simply freezing sanitary pads for a lady space ice pack; it’s an extra boost thanks to healing ingredients that will make your postpartum days a smidge easier.
Padsicle Ingredients
- 1 cup clear, unscented aloe vera gel
- 6 tablespoons witch hazel without alcohol
- 6 drops of lavender essential oil
- 4 large sanitary pads
Padsicle Directions
In a small bowl whisk together aloe vera, witch hazel, and lavender.
Unwrap each sanitary pad keeping the back adhered. Lay each one flat and spread 1/4 cup of mix down the center with a spoon. Allow it to soak in for 1-2 minutes and then fold back up. Pack in a large bag and tuck in the freezer.
Postpartum Padsicle Perks
Aloe vera is anti-inflammatory and acts as an analgesic pain reliever. It’s also the perfect consistency for freezing and thus acts as a cooling component when you tuck your padsicle in your postpartum Depends or underwear.
Witch hazel is a simple, cost-effective ingredient that aids in healing by reducing swelling. It’s also one of the main ingredients in Tucks which are a gem if you are suffering from hemorrhoid induced pain and itching.
Lavender is a go to essential oil for skin irritation and inflammation. Adding a small amount to each pad offers a calming, healing effect to each padsicle.
Postpartum Padsicle Use
After your baby is born and you’re settled at home, pull out your first padsicle and allow it to thaw for a few minutes. I like to curve mine in a large bowl so it starts to thaw in a gently U shape. That way, despite being frozen, it curves well to my body when I stick the pad to my underwear.
Wear as you would a regular pad, changing as needed, or when the cooling effect wears off.
And, keep that aloe, witch hazel, and lavender handy. You never know when you’ll need to mix up more healing solution and make some extra padsicles for yourself or a postpartum friend.