Hot or Cold? Understanding When to Use What Postpartum

Okay, let's be real. Postpartum is not a spa day. It's more like a marathon with a tiny, adorable dictator. But fear not, new mama! There's a secret weapon to help you survive and maybe even enjoy this wild ride: hot and cold therapy.

Understanding the Science of Hot & Cold Therapy

Hot and cold therapy work by influencing blood flow. Cold or cryotherapy constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and inflammation. Heat therapy, or thermotherapy, dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the area, which can soothe muscles and promote healing.

Tailoring Your Therapy

• Perineal Care: Cold packs, wrapped in a soft cloth, can provide immediate relief from swelling and pain. For added comfort, designed specifically for this area, consider a perineal cooling pad or our new Perineal Wash Bottle. It comes in a 350ml upside-down design and offers the best value for money in the market. It promotes a gentle, steady flow of water that you can fill to be warm or cool. It can eliminate the need for potentially abrasive wiping down there and help with the anti-infection regime.
• Haemorrhoids: Cold sitz baths or applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams used in conjunction with cold therapy can enhance relief.
• Breast Engorgement: While cold compresses can temporarily relieve discomfort, warm compresses before breastfeeding can help soften the breast tissue and encourage milk flow. Ensuring proper latching and frequent feeding is crucial for long-term management. Our greatly loved Hot + Cold Breast Care Pack can be chilled to relieve pain caused by engorgement and mastitis and heated to encourage and stimulate milk flow. Our reviewer, Amy, wrote:

"Being a first-time mum, everything is so new. When I started to feel my breasts becoming sore just before my milk came in, I used these hot and cold packs (heat) to help support the easing of pain and the flow. They were so easy to use, just place in the microwave, the relief was beautiful. I recommend having one pack for heat always, and then keeping one pack in the freezer. You can’t have enough packs, really! They are amazing!”

• Postpartum Pain Relief: Heat therapy can help relax the uterus and alleviate cramping. A warm water bottle or a heating pad can be used comfortably. For severe discomfort, consult with your healthcare provider about over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Muscle Soreness: Whether from labour or the physical demands of caring for a newborn, heat therapy can soothe aching muscles. A warm bath, shower, or heating pad can provide relief.

Choosing Your Postpartum Hot and Cold Packs

• Reusable Gel-Filled Packs: Versatile and eco-friendly. They are suitable for both hot and cold therapy and evenly distribute heat and cold. Our new Hot + Cold Gel Postpartum Pack is the perfect hot and cold duo for pre-and post-birth. It includes six hygienic disposable covers, and the gel composition has a colour-changing feature to assess temperature at a glance. 
• Reusable Bead-Filled Packs: Also versatile and eco-friendly, suitable for both hot and cold therapy. Extremely flexible, conforming to any body part.
• Disposable Packs: Convenient for on-the-go relief.
• Perineal Wash Bottle or Cooling Pads: Specifically designed for postpartum comfort, our new Perineal Wash Bottle is suitable for both hot and cold therapy.
• Breast Therapy Packs: Offer both hot and cold options for breast care. Try our Hot + Cold Breast Care Pack.

Safety First

• Temperature Control: Both hot and cold packs should be used at a comfortable temperature. Avoid extreme temperatures to prevent skin damage.
• Skin Protection: Always wrap hot or cold packs in a cloth before applying to the skin.
• Duration: Limit the application of hot or cold packs to 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration while using hot or cold therapy to maintain overall well-being.

Beyond Physical Relief

While hot and cold therapy is excellent for managing physical discomfort, overall well-being and postpartum care must be prioritised. Adequate rest, nutrition, and support from loved ones are crucial for a smooth postpartum recovery. Understanding what other women are going through in their postpartum journey can be helpful. For advice and support, have a read of our Navigating Baby Blues & Postpartum Depression blog.

Remember, every woman's postpartum experience is unique. What works for one may not work for another. If you experience persistent or severe pain, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and treatment. 

In the meantime, give yourself some credit and treat yourself to a little hot or cold pampering. Your body deserves it!

Now, go forth and conquer the world (or at least the world of baby care) with your newfound pain-relief superpowers and enjoy this special time with your baby.