We are so excited to bring you this video about witch hazel pads (also called padsicles). Having just recouped from the birth of her own daughter, Aviva wanted to share her step-by-step tutorial on how to prepare these cooling ‘treats’ for a more comfortable postpartum recovery.
What are witch hazel pads?
Witch hazel pads offer a relieving cooling effect from swelling, hemorrhoids and stitches during recovery from birth. We like to use them in our granny panties or adult diapers in addition to applying them to c-section stitches.
The great news is that they can be prepared well before your baby comes - consider adding it to your nesting routine - you will be glad you did! Everything you need to make witch hazel pads can be found in your postpartum care kit.
Watch full witch hazel pad tutorial
Step-by-step witch hazel pad prep
Yield: 10 pads | Prep time: 5 minutes | Freeze time: 5 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle witch hazel (100mL)
- ½ cup water
- 10 heavy-flow overnight pads
- Freezer bag or Tupperware
Optional add-ins:
- Aloe vera
- Essential oils
Directions:
- Open and unfold pads, placing them face-up on baking sheet. Leave exterior wrapper attached to pad.
- Mix water and witch hazel in a measuring cup.
- Pour two to three tablespoons of the mixture into each pad from end to end.
- Fold pads back up and pack into freezer bag.
- Place pads in freezer for a minimum of 5 hours before use.
- Place pads against any areas experiencing swelling, hemorrhoids or healing stitches, including inside your granny panties or adult diaper or onto your c-section incision.
- Remove pad and air out the area once pad is no longer cold.
ENJOY!
*Consult a qualified medical professional about whether witch hazel pads are right for you.
