The postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester, is a crucial time for recovery and self-care. One simple yet incredibly effective tool that can provide relief during those initial days and weeks postpartum are padsicles and this blog post is going to tell you how to make them!
Making padsicles is a wonderful way to prepare for postpartum recovery, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
Many parents spend months preparing for labor and delivery, only to realize afterward that they wish they had spent just as much time preparing for the weeks that follow. Creating a postpartum plan, learning about newborn care, and building a support system before your baby arrives can make the transition into parenthood feel much smoother.
Helpful next steps:
What Are Padsicles?
Padsicles, a blend of “pad” and “popsicle,” are essentially sanitary pads that have been soaked in soothing ingredients and then frozen. They offer a cooling, numbing effect that can significantly alleviate discomfort and promote healing in the perineal area after childbirth. The combination of cold therapy and the therapeutic ingredients helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Why Use Padsicles Postpartum?
After giving birth, many women experience soreness, swelling, and even tearing or episiotomies in the perineal region. Padsicles provide several benefits:
- Pain Relief: The cold helps numb the area, providing instant pain relief.
- Reduced Swelling: Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and inflammation.
- Enhanced Healing: The soothing ingredients in padsicles can help speed up the healing process.
- Convenience: They are easy to make and use, offering a practical solution for new parents.
You’re Not Expected to Know Everything
One of the biggest misconceptions about postpartum recovery is that parents are expected to figure it all out on their own.
At Doulas of Utah, our professionally certified postpartum doulas help families navigate recovery, newborn care, feeding questions, and the many unexpected moments that come with bringing home a new baby.
Whether you need overnight support, daytime guidance, or simply reassurance that what you’re experiencing is normal, we’re here to help.
- Learn more about our postpartum support services.
Ingredients for Making Padsicles
To make padsicles, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are known for their soothing and healing properties:
- Sanitary Pads: Opt for large, absorbent pads that provide ample coverage.
- Witch Hazel: An astringent that reduces swelling, fights bacteria, and soothes irritation.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, aloe vera helps heal wounds and soothes the skin.
- Lavender Essential Oil: This essential oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and its calming scent can help relax the new mother.
- Freezer Bags: To store the prepared padsicles.
Step-by-Step Guide for How to Make Padsicles
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach. This includes sanitary pads, witch hazel, aloe vera gel, lavender essential oil, and freezer bags.
Step 2: Prepare the Pads
Unwrap the sanitary pads but leave the adhesive backing intact. This will make it easier to fold and store them.
Step 3: Add Witch Hazel
Pour 1-2 tablespoons of witch hazel along the length of each pad. Make sure to use alcohol-free witch hazel to avoid irritation.
Step 4: Apply Aloe Vera Gel
Squirt a generous amount of aloe vera gel onto the pad and spread it evenly. Aloe vera provides a soothing, cooling effect that helps with pain relief.
Step 5: Add Essential Oil
Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the pad. This step is optional, but it can provide additional soothing and antiseptic benefits, along with a pleasant scent.
Step 6: Wrap and Freeze
Fold the pad back into its original shape and place it in a freezer bag. Ensure the pads are laid flat in the freezer so they maintain their shape. Freeze them for at least a couple of hours, but preferably overnight.
How to Use Padsicles
Using padsicles is simple and straightforward:
- Unwrap: Remove a padsicle from the freezer and unwrap it.
- Apply: Place it in your underwear like a regular sanitary pad.
- Replace: Use padsicles as needed, especially after using the bathroom or changing your pad. Generally, they can be used 3-4 times a day.
Padsicles are often most helpful during the first 24–72 hours after a vaginal birth, when swelling and soreness are typically at their peak. Some parents continue using them for several days afterward as needed for comfort.
Keep in mind that every recovery is different. If your healthcare provider gives you specific postpartum care instructions, those recommendations should always take priority.
What Else Should You Include in Your Postpartum Recovery Kit?
Padsicles can provide soothing relief after a vaginal birth, but they’re just one part of a well-prepared postpartum recovery kit. Having a few additional essentials on hand before your baby arrives can help make those first days at home more comfortable and less stressful.
Consider including:
- A peri bottle for gentle cleansing after using the bathroom
- High-absorbency postpartum pads or disposable postpartum underwear
- Comfortable nursing bras (if you plan to breastfeed)
- A large reusable water bottle to help you stay hydrated
- Healthy, easy-to-grab snacks to keep your energy up during long days and nights
- Stool softeners, if recommended by your healthcare provider
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to move around and nurse in
Preparing for postpartum isn’t just about gathering supplies, it’s also about preparing yourself. Many families find it helpful to create a postpartum plan, learn what to expect during recovery, and take a newborn care class before their baby arrives. Those steps can help you feel more confident as you transition into life with your newborn.
Helpful resources:
Additional Tips for Postpartum Care
While padsicles are incredibly effective, they are just one part of postpartum care. Here are a few additional tips to support your recovery:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your body heal and supports breastfeeding.
- Eat Nutritious Foods: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can aid recovery.
- Rest: Take it easy and allow your body time to heal. Accept help from family and friends and consider hiring a postpartum doula.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: These can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and speed up recovery.
- Stay Clean: Gently clean the perineal area with warm water after using the bathroom to prevent infection.
Preparing for the Fourth Trimester?
Making padsicles is a great first step, but recovering after birth often takes more than a well-stocked freezer.
Doulas of Utah provides experienced, professionally certified postpartum doulas who help families feel more rested, confident, and supported throughout the newborn stage. Whether you’re looking for overnight newborn care, daytime support, or newborn education, we’re here to help make your transition into parenthood a little easier. Reach out today!
Explore our:
Frequently Asked Questions
Most parents find it helpful to prepare between 20 and 40 padsicles before delivery. How many you’ll use depends on your recovery, bleeding, and personal comfort preferences during the first few weeks postpartum.
Many people begin using padsicles immediately after returning home from the hospital. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding postpartum recovery and perineal care.
Padsicles are typically most effective during the first 20-30 minutes after being applied. They don’t need to be frozen solid to provide relief; many people prefer them partially thawed for comfort.
Common padsicle ingredients include witch hazel and aloe vera gel. Some parents also choose to use lavender or other ingredients, though it’s always best to discuss postpartum recovery products with your healthcare provider before use.
Even though padsicles are often associated with vaginal birth recovery, some parents who have had a cesarean birth still appreciate the cooling comfort they provide during postpartum bleeding and recovery.
Yes. There are several commercially available postpartum cooling pad products designed for postpartum recovery. Some parents prefer the convenience of purchasing them, while others enjoy making their own ahead of time.
In addition to padsicles, many families include:
Peri bottles
Large postpartum pads
Comfortable underwear
Nipple cream
Easy-to-grab snacks
Water bottles
Sitz bath supplies
Preparing a postpartum recovery kit before birth can help make the transition home more comfortable.
Yes. Many parents prepare padsicles during the third trimester so they’re ready to use when they return home from the hospital. Store them in the freezer until you need them.
