The postpartum period, which is the time following childbirth, can bring about a range of challenges for new parents, including sleep deprivation, breastfeeding troubles, and mental health struggles, making physical recovery a task in itself.
Postpartum vaginal pain is a common postnatal discomfort experienced by some women, often due to the physical trauma of childbirth. Proper care, pain management techniques, and working with a healthcare professional can help alleviate the symptoms during the postpartum period. Moreover, padsicles or frozen maxi pads can ease postpartum vaginal discomfort and swelling. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Madhushree Vijayakumar, Consultant-Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Hebbal, Bengaluru, sheds light on the benefits of using a padsicle.
Postpartum Vaginal Pain
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), vaginal bleeding, cramping, pain in the back, neck, or joints, pain in the perineum, which is the area between the vagina and anus, pain around incision in case of caesarean birth are some of the common postpartum symptoms.
Also Read: The Fear Of Vaginal Penetration Is Real: Expert Explains The Condition Called Vaginismus
Vaginal pain after childbirth can also occur due to the swelling in the vaginal and perineal tissues, along with instances of haemorrhoids, swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the rectum and anus.
Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections or wound infections from episiotomies or C-section incisions, can also lead to vaginal pain.
Moreover, hormonal changes postpartum, pelvic floor dysfunction, sutures or staples used to repair vaginal or abdominal incisions can also cause pain and discomfort in intimate areas postpartum.
What Are Padsicles And Their Benefits?
“Padsicles, also known as postpartum cold packs, are commonly used by new mothers to help relieve postpartum vaginal pain and discomfort after giving birth,” says Dr Vijayakumar, adding , “They are essentially sanitary pads that have been soaked in a soothing mixture, then frozen to provide cooling relief to the perineal area (the area between the vagina and anus) and the vaginal area.”
Some of the benefits of padsicles include:
Reducing swelling: Padsicles can help reduce swelling in the perineal and vaginal area, which is common after childbirth, especially if you've had a vaginal delivery or an episiotomy (a surgical cut made at the opening of the vagina to ease delivery). The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels, which can reduce inflammation and swelling. Here is how it can help.
Pain relief: The cold temperature can also numb the area, providing pain relief from soreness, stitches, or any discomfort associated with vaginal or perineal trauma during childbirth.
Promoting healing: Some padsicles are made with ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera, which are known for their soothing and healing properties. These ingredients can help promote the healing process in the perineal area.
Also Read: What Is Excessive Vaginal Discharge? Expert Explains Tips To Prevent It
How To Use A Padsicle?
If you’re new to the use of padsicle, here are some instructions:
- Lay out the pads on a clean surface
- If desired, apply a small amount of witch hazel or aloe vera gel to the pad. Witch hazel can provide additional soothing and astringent properties, while aloe vera gel can add moisture
- You can also add a thin layer of aloe vera gel or coconut oil to the pad to provide extra moisture
- Fold the pad back up and place it in a Ziploc bag or wrap it in aluminium foil
- Store the wrapped pads in the freezer until they are frozen solid. This usually takes a few hours or overnight
- Once the padsicles are frozen, you can use them by simply placing one inside your underwear with the cooling side against your perineal area. The coldness should provide relief from swelling and discomfort
- Use as needed, but be sure to use a barrier (like a cloth or paper towel) between the padsicle and your skin to prevent frostbite or excessive cold exposure
Bottomline
A padsicle is a great way to relieve postpartum vaginal pain and help soothe symptoms. Additionally, it is essential for affected individuals to communicate with their healthcare provider, as appropriate treatment and management can vary depending on the underlying cause.