DIY Postpartum Padsicles

Padsicles are pads that have been enhanced with the addition of soothing botanicals to create a cool ice pack for the perineal area post-partum.

Padsicles are great because the herbs and essential oils help to:

1. Curb the itch.

2. Soothe the pain.

3. Reduce inflammation.

Ingredients I used:

• @juju.australia Reusable cotton pad

• @orgamix_ Coconut Oil

• @barefootcreations7 100% Witch Hazel

• @inessenceaus Lavender Oil

• @tomorganic super pads

• Fresh Aloe Vera Gel (*see further below for preparation of fresh Aloe)

How to make:

1. Mix all ingredients together: 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of witch hazel and 32 drops of lavender essential oil (to make a 1% dilution)

2. Open pads/ reusable pad and remove liner and spread wings.

3. Spoon liquid contents onto pad.

4. Close wings and reseal pad.

5. Wrap in aluminum foil and place in freezer.

6. It can be used the day after the birth and for as long as required in those early days/weeks.

7. Click to see the DIY time lapse video. DIY Postpartum Padsicles 💃🏽 Padsicles are pads that have been enhanced with the addition of soothing botanicals to create a cool ice pack for the... | By Helena Netscher NaturopathyFacebook | Facebook

The overall goal is to soothe, cool, clean and help heal those tender, bruised nether regions after birthing.

* Prepping Fresh Aloe Vera Gel

1. Cut the leaf of Fresh Aloe Vera, I used 6 in total.

2. Wash all the aloe under water, and let them drain in a bowl for 10-15 minutes. You will notice that they leak a yellow substance called resin. This step is a must as the resin contains latex which can be highly irritating to the skin.

3. Cut each leaf into two parts and use a spoon to scoop out the aloe, a clear, slimy substance on the inside of the leaf, into a blender.

4. Blend the aloe in the @thermomixaus until it is light and frothy. Since the aloe vera will be used directly on a padsicle that will go into the freezer, you do not need to add a preservative. The aloe vera can last 6 months in the freezer!

Have you made Padsicles as part of your labour prep? Let me know how you found it post birth!