DIY Guide: Learn How to Make Padsicles at Home for Postpartum Relief

If you’re expecting a baby or know someone who is, you may have heard of padsicles. These frozen postpartum pads are a popular DIY remedy to help soothe and heal after childbirth. Padsicles are essentially maxi pads that have been soaked in various ingredients and then frozen. They can provide relief from pain, swelling, and discomfort in the perineal area, which is common after giving birth.

Creating your own padsicles at home is a simple and cost-effective solution. All you need are a few basic ingredients and some freezer space. The process involves soaking the pads in a mixture of soothing liquids, such as witch hazel, aloe vera gel, and lavender essential oil. These ingredients can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and provide a cooling sensation when applied to the skin.

To make padsicles, start by laying out your maxi pads on a clean surface. Then, mix together your chosen ingredients in a bowl. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences, but a common ratio is 1 part witch hazel to 1 part aloe vera gel, with a few drops of lavender essential oil added for fragrance. Once the mixture is well combined, pour it over the pads, ensuring they are evenly saturated.

After the pads are soaked, individually wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in resealable bags. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep them hygienic. Place the wrapped pads in the freezer and allow them to freeze for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to use them, simply unwrap a padsicle and apply it to the perineal area. The cold temperature will provide instant relief, while the soothing ingredients work their magic.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin making your own padsicles at home, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Maxi Pads: Choose a brand and size that you feel comfortable using. Make sure they are unscented and free of any chemicals or additives.

2. Witch Hazel: Look for a bottle of pure witch hazel without any added fragrances or alcohol. Witch hazel helps to soothe and reduce inflammation.

3. Aloe Vera Gel: Opt for a pure and natural aloe vera gel. Aloe vera has cooling properties and can help with healing.

4. Lavender Essential Oil (optional): If you enjoy the scent of lavender, you can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your padsicles for a calming and relaxing effect.

5. Freezer Bags: You’ll need freezer bags to store your padsicles in the freezer. Make sure they are large enough to fit the pads comfortably.

6. Freezer Space: Make sure you have enough space in your freezer to store the padsicles until you need them.

Once you have all of your supplies gathered, you’ll be ready to start making your own DIY padsicles at home!

Sanitary Pads

Sanitary pads, also known as menstrual pads or sanitary napkins, are absorbent materials worn by women to manage menstrual flow. They are designed to be worn in the underwear and come in various shapes, sizes, and absorbency levels.

Sanitary pads are an essential product for women during their menstrual cycle. They provide protection against leaks and help maintain personal hygiene. While there are many commercially available sanitary pads, some women prefer to make their own DIY pads for various reasons.

DIY sanitary pads can be made using different materials such as cotton fabric, flannel, or even disposable diapers. These homemade pads can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences. They can also be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to disposable pads.

When making DIY sanitary pads, it is important to ensure proper hygiene and cleanliness. The materials used should be clean and sanitized before use. It is also recommended to change the pad regularly to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness.

Here are some steps to make DIY sanitary pads:

1. Choose a suitable material for the pad, such as cotton fabric or flannel.
2. Cut the material into the desired shape and size for the pad.
3. Sew or glue the edges of the material to prevent fraying.
4. Add an absorbent layer to the pad, such as cotton batting or folded fabric.
5. Secure the absorbent layer in place by sewing or gluing it to the main material.
6. Optional: Add wings or snaps to the pad for better security and comfort.
7. Wash and sanitize the pad before use.

DIY sanitary pads can be a practical and sustainable alternative to commercial pads. They allow women to take control of their menstrual hygiene and reduce their environmental impact. However, it is important to remember that personal hygiene and comfort should always be prioritized when using any type of sanitary pad.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can provide relief and reduce inflammation. It is commonly used in skincare products and can also be used in DIY padsicles.

To make padsicles with witch hazel, you will need:

• Maxi pads
• Witch hazel
• Aloe vera gel
• Lavender essential oil (optional)

Start by opening the maxi pad and laying it flat. Then, pour witch hazel over the pad until it is saturated. You can also add a small amount of aloe vera gel for additional soothing properties. If desired, add a few drops of lavender essential oil for a pleasant scent.

Once the pad is saturated, fold it back up and place it in a resealable plastic bag. Repeat this process for as many padsicles as you want to make.

When you are ready to use a padsicle, simply take one out of the freezer and allow it to thaw for a few minutes. Then, place it in your underwear for soothing relief. The witch hazel will help reduce inflammation and provide a cooling sensation, while the aloe vera gel will help soothe any discomfort.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before trying any DIY remedies, especially if you have any specific medical conditions or concerns.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is a natural ingredient that can provide soothing and healing properties to padsicles. It is commonly used for its cooling effect and can help reduce inflammation and irritation. Aloe vera gel is also known for its moisturizing properties, which can help keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness.

To incorporate aloe vera gel into your padsicles, you can either use fresh aloe vera gel from the plant or purchase a pre-made gel from a store. If using fresh aloe vera gel, make sure to carefully extract the gel from the plant and remove any green parts, as they can cause irritation. Once you have the gel, you can apply it directly to the padsicles or mix it with other ingredients, such as witch hazel or lavender oil, for added benefits.

When applying aloe vera gel to padsicles, make sure to spread a thin layer evenly over the surface of the pad. This will ensure that the gel is distributed evenly and provides maximum soothing and healing benefits. Allow the gel to dry completely before using the padsicles, as this will help prevent any stickiness or discomfort.

Overall, aloe vera gel is a great addition to padsicles due to its soothing, healing, and moisturizing properties. It can help provide relief from postpartum discomfort and promote healing in the perineal area. Whether using fresh gel or store-bought, incorporating aloe vera gel into your padsicles can be a simple and effective way to enhance their benefits.

Prepare Your Padsicles

Before you start making your padsicles, gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

– Pads (preferably overnight or heavy flow)

– Witch hazel

– Aloe vera gel

– Lavender essential oil (optional)

– Freezer-safe ziplock bags

Once you have all the supplies ready, follow these steps to prepare your padsicles:

1. Unwrap the pads and lay them flat on a clean surface.
2. Using a spoon or a dropper, apply witch hazel to the pads. Make sure to saturate them evenly.
3. If desired, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to each pad for a soothing effect.
4. Next, apply a layer of aloe vera gel on top of the witch hazel. This will help soothe any discomfort or irritation.
5. Once you’ve finished applying the aloe vera gel, fold the pads back up and place them in freezer-safe ziplock bags.
6. Label the bags with the date and store them in the freezer until needed.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before using any DIY remedies, including padsicles. They can provide personalized advice and ensure that it’s safe for you to use.

Open the sanitary pads

To make padsicles at home, you will need to start by opening the sanitary pads. Carefully remove the wrapper from each pad, making sure not to tear or damage the pad itself. Once the pads are opened, you can proceed to the next step in creating your DIY padsicles.