DIY Witch Hazel Padsicles for Postpartum Recovery

Coming home from the hospital and managing postpartum discomfort after a vaginal birth can feel overwhelming, but there’s a simple solution that can offer much-needed relief—padsicles! These soothing, cooling pads are a must-have for after-birth recovery, and the best part is that you can easily make them at home. Prepare them ahead of time so they’re ready to go when you need them most. Read along for a simple DIY of these witch hazel padsicles for postpartum recovery!

Mom, baby and dad after mom gave birth
Family after birth

What You’ll Need for DIY Padsicles:

  • Heavy or overnight sanitary pads
  • Witch hazel (alcohol free)
  • Aloe vera gel
  • 100% Lavender Essential oil (optional)
  • Large freezer ziploc bags

The Process:

  1. Open all of the sanitary pads on a clean countertop, ensuring you leave the backing to the sticky part attached
  2. Saturate each pad with witch hazel, be sure not to oversaturate them
  3. Use a clean spoon or silicone spatula to spread a generous amount of aloe over the witch hazel saturated pads
  4. Stack the pads into your Ziploc bags and place them in the freezer
  5. Save until after birth and use as needed
Overnight pads for padsicles
Overnight pads for padsicles

Preparing for After Birth Comfort

These cooling pads are easy to prepare, cost-effective, and provide relief for the discomfort that often comes after a vaginal birth. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be well-equipped to handle your recovery and focus on resting and snuggling your new little one!

Remember to prep and store your padsicles in the freezer ahead of time so they’re ready to comfort you when you come home from the hospital. Prioritize your well-being during postpartum recovery with this simple and effective DIY solution!

Pregnant in Charlotte, NC or surrounding areas?

FAQ

1. What are padsicles?
Padsicles are soothing, cooling pads made from sanitary pads soaked in witch hazel and aloe vera. They provide relief from discomfort after childbirth, particularly for vaginal births.

2. When should I start using padsicles after giving birth?
You can start using padsicles immediately after giving birth, as they provide comfort and help alleviate postpartum soreness and inflammation.

3. Can I customize my padsicles?
Absolutely! You can add essential oils like lavender for a soothing aroma, but be sure to use only 100% essential oils and avoid any irritants.

4. When should I stop using padsicles?

Padsicles are most effective in the first 24-72 hours after birth. Once this time frame ends it is best to switch to focusing on warmth such as sitting in a sitz bath promoting blood flow and healing.

Kaitlyn Foster, Queen City Doulas, stands against a brick wall. She is wearing a floral cardigan over a white top and is smiling warmly

Meet Kaitlyn Foster, RN, PNP

Passionate Doula and Dedicated Healthcare Professional

Kaitlyn Foster is not only the visionary founder of Queen City Doulas but also a proud mother of two energetic boys. With a rich background as a Radical Birth Keeper, she brings a profound dedication to empowering and supporting families through the transformative journey of childbirth.

Kaitlyn’s expertise is further enhanced by her extensive healthcare experience; she is both a registered nurse and a pediatric nurse practitioner. Her unique blend of medical knowledge and passionate advocacy for natural birth experiences makes her a trusted ally to parents navigating the early stages of parenthood in the Charlotte area.

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