DIY Crotchsicle: Soothe That Postbirth Vagina with This
/You'd ice a bump, bruise, or injury right? Your vagina after childbirth deserves that kind of care too. Forget the diaper with ice cubes shoved in it (as they do in hospitals). Make your own crotchsicles, or better yet have someone make them for you.
Ingredients: thick absorbent pads, water, witch hazel, a bowl, and aloe vera gel (optional)
Thoroughly soak the middle portion of the pad with water.
Generously drizzle witch hazel (a natural astringent) over the watered portions.
Place the pad in the bowl.
Repeat steps 1-3 with additional pads until your bowl is maxed out (usually 3-4 pads).
Place in freezer over night.
Try to pick a bowl matching the shape of your pelvis so when the crotchsicle is frozen and hard it's already contoured to your body. If it's not contoured to your body and the crotchsicle is too hard, let it sit on the counter for a few minutes and then bend the edges to loosen them up.
Sit on a crotchsicle or place one in your undies as you lean back on the bed or sofa. Your clothes or sitting surface may get wet when it starts to melt. A towel or chux pad can help with that.
These are also great to use after a pelvic PT session, particularly if you feel a bit tender.
Tip: After taking one out of the freezer, let it sit for a few minutes so it's not a solid hard piece of ice on your crotch. Also, you can put less water on the pad next time if it's too icy.