Easy DIY Padsicles.
Cold packs are key for your own postpartum self-care. Cold therapy can help soothe the pain and irritation after you experience birth. You can grab cold packs or ice from the nurses while at the hospital but they can be pretty bulky. Typically, you shouldn’t need them for more than 2-3 days after giving birth. After that point, you’ll still benefit from some cold therapy so I suggest making your own custom DIY Padsicles.
It’s super easy to make your own postpartum cold packs, following these easy instructions, and you can make about 30 of these in 15 minutes. I’ve made plenty for clients, they are very soothing and effective.
You will need:
Chlorine-Free Maxi pads: I recommend using chlorine-free unscented overnight pads. They work just as well as any other maxi pad but don’t contain chlorine, or its harmful byproduct dioxin. Cora pads are also really great. A really wonderful company that provides pads and health education to a girl in need. You may want to consider them!
- Witch Hazel: Witch Hazel (an extract from the witch hazel shrub) is a natural, soothing to the skin. It helps reduce inflammation and heal wounds. The most important thing when choosing your brand of witch hazel for your DIY padsicles is to avoid brands that have alcohol, which would further cause irritation. Thayers is a great brand, easy to find here – alcohol-free, organic witch hazel; free of fragrances and parabens.
- Organic Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is a wonderful, natural soothing treatment for skin. Ensure it’s organic aloe vera gel, Aubrey Organics, contains only pure aloe vera and pure ingredients.
- Spray Bottle: Any spray bottle will do, and you’ll only use this to spray the witch hazel onto the pads. Instead of spending $5 on a spray bottle, I just grabbed the one that came with my travel bottles. (However, if you’re like me and do a bit of DIY’ing with essential oils, grab these – cobalt blue spray bottles. Cause they’re pretty!)
- Plastic Bags: You’ll want to use freezer bags or plastic wrap to store the padsicles in your freezer.
- Lavender Essential Oil: While it’s optional, you can add 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil to your witch hazel spray bottle. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation. (This Young Living brand is pure, high quality, and effective. I highly recommend the Starter Kit – receive a $10 credit when you purchase, education and an online community led my me.
Five easy steps – DIY PADSICLES:
- Add your lavender essential oil to the witch hazel in the spray bottle.
- Open up your maxi pads and spray down your pad, top to bottom. Make sure it’s fairly soaked.
- Run the aloe vera down the length of the pad, again, top to bottom.
- Fold the pad up and return to package. Place in freezer bag to set.
- Allow to freeze for several hours or until cool.
marj wong 