Padsicle Gel: The Coolest Trick in the Postpartum Playbook
Perineal discomfort is one of the most common (and least glamorous) parts of postpartum recovery. Swelling, stitches, or just that raw, tender feeling can make the first weeks after birth a whole new kind of marathon.
For years, Kiwi mums have been making DIY “padsicles”, soaking maternity pads in water, witch hazel, or even random aloe vera gels and freezing them for relief. Smart? Yes. Safe? Not always. The problem is, you never really know how potent the ingredients are (or what’s even in that shelf-bought witch hazel). And let’s be honest — DIY can be messy, inconsistent, and time-consuming when you’re already in survival mode.
That’s why we created the Viva La Vulva Padsicle Gel. Same DIY spirit, but without the guesswork. Formulated right here in NZ with carefully measured amounts of aloe vera for natural cooling and witch hazel distilled locally for healing, it’s made specifically for postpartum recovery. No random after-sun gels, no watered-down witch hazel, no mess. Just comfort you can trust.
What Are Padsicles?
Padsicles are maternity pads coated with soothing ingredients (and sometimes frozen) to help reduce swelling and perineal discomfort after birth.
Traditionally, mums would make them at home with witch hazel or aloe vera. But the results? Hit and miss. You might end up with too much, too little, or ingredients that aren’t safe for tender postpartum skin.
Padsicle Gel takes the DIY out of DIY padsicles. It’s already blended to the right balance, safe for healing skin, and can be used straight on your pad with or without freezing.
For more about why cold therapy helps, see Health NZ: Postnatal Care.
Why Choose Viva La Vulva Padsicle Gel
Here’s why Kiwi mums are swapping messy DIY for our pre-formulated gel:
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Formulated for postpartum - aloe vera + NZ-distilled witch hazel in safe, effective amounts.
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Cooling comfort - instant relief from swelling and tenderness, freezer optional.
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Mess-free - apply directly onto pads, no soaking or dripping.
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Trusted + safe - no mystery gels or diluted witch hazel, just plant-powered healing.
Hospital bag essential; easy to pack, easy to use, and highly recommended by mamas who’ve been there.
How to Use Padsicle Gel
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Apply a thin layer of gel directly onto a maternity pad.
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Pop the pad in the freezer for extra cooling (optional: it works straight from the bottle too).
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Use as needed in the early weeks of recovery.
- Dispose of pads after use and reapply fresh gel when required.
The process is quick, hygienic, and tailored for comfort.
Pair It with These Postpartum Recovery Essentials
Padsicle Gel is brilliant on its own, but teamed up with other Viva La Vulva heroines, it makes recovery feel next-level:
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Healing Perineal Spray for soothing relief.
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Peri Bottle for gentle cleansing.
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Good Witch Hazel Spray for traditional perineal care.
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Healing Bath Soak for restorative rituals at home.
Free Postpartum Resources
Education and preparation are just as important as the right products. Explore these free resources from Viva La Vulva:
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Hospital Bag Checklist so you pack with confidence.
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Perineal Massage Guide with practical recovery tips.
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Postpartum Affirmation Cards for emotional support after birth.
Real Stories from Kiwi Mums
“I tried making my own padsicles after my first baby. With my second, I used Viva La Vulva Padsicle Gel and it was so much easier. I wish I had it sooner.” - Emma, Wellington
“Padsicle Gel gave me instant cooling relief and saved me from messy DIY pads. I recommend it to every new mum I know.” - Hana, Auckland
When to Seek Extra Help
Padsicle Gel is designed for comfort and cooling relief, but if you notice:
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Persistent or severe pain
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Heavy or unusual bleeding
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Signs of infection like fever or swelling
Contact your midwife, GP, or LMC.
For further information, see Health NZ: Caring for your perineum.
Wrapping it Up
Padsicle Gel is one of the easiest ways to bring comfort into your postpartum recovery. No fuss, no mess, just instant cool when you need it most.
Add it to your Hospital Bag Bundle and give yourself the cooling support every new mum in New Zealand deserves.
