A padsicle is a specialized, homemade cold pack designed to provide immediate relief for the perineal area following childbirth. It is an absorbent sanitary napkin treated with soothing agents and frozen. Primarily used after vaginal delivery, padsicles manage discomfort, swelling, and localized pain. They are worn comfortably in underwear, offering hands-free cold therapy during initial recovery.
How Padsicles Provide Relief
Pain reduction relies on cryotherapy, or cold treatment, applied directly to the perineum. The cold causes vasoconstriction, the narrowing of local blood vessels. This reduction in blood flow helps to significantly minimize swelling and inflammation associated with vaginal tearing, episiotomy incisions, or general tissue trauma from pushing.
Cold also acts as a natural topical anesthetic, temporarily numbing nerve endings to dull pain and soreness. Padsicles are infused with therapeutic ingredients. Pure aloe vera gel provides a moisturizing, anti-inflammatory effect that promotes healing. Witch hazel, a natural astringent, reduces swelling, relieves itching, and eases pain from hemorrhoids, a frequent postpartum complaint.
When and How to Use Padsicles
Padsicles are most beneficial during the first few days to a week following vaginal delivery, when swelling and pain are at their peak. They replace regular maternity pads to manage lochia (postpartum bleeding) while providing therapeutic relief.
Before application, remove the padsicle from the freezer and allow it to thaw slightly for five to ten minutes. This thawing prevents the ice-cold surface from irritating the delicate skin. Once softened, place the padsicle into underwear like a standard pad.
Although the cold sensation lasts 20 to 30 minutes, the pad should be changed regularly, typically every two to four hours, to maintain hygiene and manage bleeding. Avoid continuous use for long periods to prevent potential skin damage from prolonged cold exposure.
Making Your Own Padsicles
Preparing a supply of padsicles before delivery is a simple step for postpartum recovery. Materials required include large, absorbent overnight or maternity pads, alcohol-free witch hazel, and pure, unscented aloe vera gel.
The assembly begins by unwrapping each pad, keeping the original backing wrapper intact for re-sealing. Lay the pad flat and spread a generous layer of pure aloe vera gel evenly down the center, covering the area that contacts the skin.
Next, lightly saturate the pad with alcohol-free witch hazel, ensuring the pad is damp but not completely soaked. Distribute the witch hazel along the length of the pad. Once ingredients are added, fold the pad back into its original form and wrap it tightly using the original wrapper, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap.
Place the wrapped padsicles into a large, sealed freezer bag and store them in the freezer until needed. Preparing 10 to 20 pads ensures an adequate supply for the initial recovery phase.