Following childbirth, many individuals experience perineal soreness, swelling, and discomfort as the body begins its recovery process. Frozen pads, often referred to as “padsicles,” are a simple, homemade remedy designed to offer immediate, soothing cold relief to this sensitive area. These preparations combine the absorbency of a standard maternity pad with cooling, topical agents that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting comfort during the initial postpartum period. This approach supports healing by leveraging the therapeutic benefits of cold therapy directly at the site of discomfort.
Necessary Supplies and Ingredients
Creating these pads requires gathering several specific materials. The foundation of this remedy is a supply of large, highly absorbent maternity maxi pads, preferably the full-size, thick variety. These pads provide the necessary surface area and cushioning to hold the applied ingredients for future use.
The primary active ingredients include 100% pure aloe vera gel and an alcohol-free witch hazel solution. Aloe vera offers a natural cooling effect and supports minor skin irritations and superficial healing. Witch hazel, derived from the Hamamelis virginiana plant, contains tannins that contribute to its astringent and anti-inflammatory characteristics, helping to calm swollen tissues. Finally, sealable freezer bags or plastic wrap are needed to ensure the individual pads remain hygienic and protected from freezer burn during storage.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
The preparation process involves careful, hygienic application of the ingredients to create a pad that is moist but not oversaturated. Begin by unwrapping the maxi pad but leave the adhesive backing paper intact, folding the wings underneath if present. This allows access to the absorbent surface while keeping the pad contained.
Next, apply a generous layer of 100% pure aloe vera gel across the entire top surface of the pad, spreading it evenly with a clean utensil or gloved hand. This creates a substantial coating that delivers a cooling sensation without soaking the material through. Following the aloe, lightly saturate the pad with the alcohol-free witch hazel solution.
Avoid completely drenching the pad; excessive liquid compromises the pad’s structure and leads to an uncomfortably hard, icy surface when frozen. The pad should feel damp and thoroughly infused but should not be dripping. Once the ingredients are applied, fold the pad back into its original wrapper or fold the wings over the center to close it. Place each prepared pad individually into a sealable freezer bag or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap. Lay the pads flat in the freezer to ensure they freeze into a smooth, comfortable shape.
Safe Application and Storage
Proper application of the frozen pad is important to maximize comfort. These pads are generally recommended for use within the first few days following childbirth when swelling and acute discomfort are most pronounced. To use a padsicle, remove it from the freezer, unwrap it, and place it directly inside clean underwear, positioning the cooling surface against the perineal area.
To avoid freezer burn, some individuals prefer to let the pad warm slightly for a minute or two or to wrap it in a thin layer of gauze or a clean, soft cloth before application. Cold therapy should not be applied continuously for extended periods; a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes at a time is recommended to allow the skin to return to its normal temperature. Always ensure hands are washed thoroughly before handling a clean pad to maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of infection.
The prepared padsicles can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, provided they are kept well-sealed in airtight bags. Once a pad has been used, it must be discarded immediately and never reused, even if it appears to have partially thawed. This ensures optimal hygiene and prevents the introduction of contaminants to the healing area.