Breast pads are typically for the use of catching excess milk supply when a nursing mother experiences let-down. Most mothers purchase a large supply of disposable or cloth breast pads to see them through their months of nursing. If you've recently weaned your baby and still have a supply of breast pads available, don't throw them out. You can find a variety of uses for them around your house and for first aid purposes that can help you to use them up instead of wasting them.
Weaning
When weaning your baby, you're likely to experience some discomfort from engorgement when your baby lessens the amount of milk he is taking from your supply. Breast pads can save you from embarrassment of leaking when you psychologically want to nurse, like when your baby cries or your breasts are stimulated. You can also express a small amount of milk into the breast pads when the pressure is too much; it should relieve some of the pain without disrupting the weaning process.
Better Sleep
A separation-sensitive baby can make it hard for you to get enough sleep each night. Dr. William Sears, Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, suggests expressing a small amount of milk onto a breast pad, or wearing one for a short amount of time. Then, place the breast pad in the crib with your swaddled baby, where she can't reach it. The scent can help calm her when she wakes in the night, and may afford you and your family a better night's rest.
Postpartum Bleeding
Postpartum bleeding is an inevitable part of the healing process, especially after a vaginal birth. Tearing of the perineum can also contribute to a heavy flow of vaginal bleeding. Tucking a few breast pads into your diaper bag along with other feminine protection can help protect you from embarrassing leaks or a sudden change in flow. Breast pads are absorbent and have an adhesive backing that hold the pad in place as a temporary way to protect your clothes from postpartum bleeding.
Hemorrhoids
Whether you're dealing with hemorrhoids from a recent vaginal delivery or struggle with them on a daily basis, breast pads can create an ideal, soothing product to cool them down and reduce itching. MayoClinic.com recommends wiping down hemorrhoids with pure witch hazel, which has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and soothing properties. Douse a few breast pads in witch hazel and place them in the fridge. When your hemorrhoids are bothering you, apply the pads to the area for quick and satisfying relief.
