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Hydrogel pads

Hydrogel Pads

It is common for women to experience sore and cracked nipples, especially during the early days of breastfeeding.1 The dermatologically tested Hydrogel Pads can be an effective treatment that provides instant pain relief through cooling and soothing, and supports the healing of damaged nipples to help continue your breastfeeding journey. Each pad is individually wrapped and can be reused for 24 hours – perfect for on-the-go.

Instant pain relief through soothing and cooling

Supports faster healing of cracked nipples

Protective barrier against rubbing and infection

Features & Benefits
  • Instant cooling for pain relief
    High water content delivers an immediate cooling effect to soothe sore nipples and ease discomfort.2,4
  • Supports healing with a moist wound environment
    Creates optimal conditions for natural healing by maintaining skin hydration and promoting gentle breakdown and removal of dead tissue.3;
  • Protects against rubbing and friction
    Forms a soft, cushioning barrier that helps reduce irritation from clothing or nursing pads.5,6
  • Helps reduce the risk of infection
    The top layer allows air to circulate while keeping bacteria out – supporting a clean and safe healing environment.5,7
  • Reusable for 24 hours
    Each pad can be worn between feeds or pumping sessions throughout the day, offering continuous comfort.2
  • Sterile and individually packaged
    Each pad is sealed for hygiene and easy use on the go – ideal for maternity wards and hospital bags.
  • Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic
    Well tolerated by sensitive skin, free from preservatives and safe to use while breastfeeding.5
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What's included

4 x Individually wrapped sterile pads 

 

Dermatologically Tested & Reusable up to 24H

Dermatologically tested, preservative-free, and sterile, they are easy to apply and reapply without causing pain or discomfort for up to 24h.

Extra Cooling Sensation

Store unopened gel pads in the fridge for 30 minutes before use to enhance cooling.

Hospital Bag Essential

Sore and cracked nipples are common in the early days of breastfeeding.1 Hydrogel Pads are your ideal companion providing cooling and soothing relief and supporting recovery in those first days.

Benefits of a moist wound healing

Medela Hydrogel Pads are designed to create a moist environment that supports recovery for mothers with cracked nipples.

A moist environment doesn’t just feel better – it’s proven to have several wound healing benefits.2, 3

  • Supports faster healing by promoting cell migration and encouraging healthy tissue growth3
  • Helps repair the skin naturally by promoting tissue regeneration2,3
  • Reduces scarring by providing the best conditions for faster and better healing3
  • Keeps the wound clean by enabling natural debridement – your body’s own way of removing damaged tissue and promoting healing3
  • Minimises pain by protecting damaged nerve endings3,6

How to Use Hydrogel Pads

Hydrogel Pads are simple to use:

1. Wash your hands.

2. Remove the plastic liner and apply the pad to the breast, gel side down.      

3. Before breastfeeding, remove the pad and put it back on the plastic liner or a clean surface with the gel side facing up. Wash your breast with warm water, pat dry, and start breastfeeding.

4. After feeding, reapply with clean hands. No cleaning or rinsing of the pad is required.

Customer Reviews

"They were incredible. Cool & soothing. Noticed a massive difference within 24 hours."

LM1983

"These instantly calmed the searing pain and sped up recovery time so we could continue our breastfeeding journey."

Rochelle M

"In the early days of breastfeeding my nipples got very sore and cracked and these gave great relief."

Louise K

"In the early days of breastfeeding my nipples got very sore and cracked and these gave great relief."

Louise K

"They were incredible. Cool & soothing. Noticed a massive difference within 24 hours."

LM1983

"These instantly calmed the searing pain and sped up recovery time so we could continue our breastfeeding journey."

Rochelle M

"In the early days of breastfeeding my nipples got very sore and cracked and these gave great relief."

Louise K

"They were incredible. Cool & soothing. Noticed a massive difference within 24 hours."

LM1983

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hydrogel Pad?

Hydrogel Pads contain the substance hydrogel which is a water-based, gel-like material that can retain a significant amount of moisture. Hydrogel is composed of a network of polymer chains that provide a soft, cushiony texture. When applied to the skin, the hydrogel enables the Hydrogel Pads to create a moist healing environment, which is beneficial for the repair of damaged tissues.

When should I use Hydrogel Pads?

Hydrogel Pads are an effective treatment option for sore or cracked nipples, especially in the early days of your breastfeeding journey. The gel pads provide immediate pain relief by soothing and cooling the skin and help protect the nipples from friction caused by clothing or nursing pads. The moist wound environment they create supports natural skin repair.

How do Hydrogel Pads work?

Medela Hydrogel Pads have a special formulation that creates a protective cushion, cooling the skin on contact and supporting healing. They are large enough to cover your nipple and areola, both of which may be affected by soreness.

How do I use Hydrogel Pads?
  • First, wash your hands, then open the pouch and remove the Hydrogel Pad from the plastic liner.
  • Carefully place the pad's gel side directly over your nipple.
  • When you need to breastfeed your baby, remove the Hydrogel Pad and place it back on the plastic liner or a clean surface.
  • Gently wash your breast with warm water and pat dry before breastfeeding.
  • Once you've finished, reapply the gel pad with clean hands.
Are Hydrogel Pads reusable?

Yes, each Hydrogel Pad can be reused within a 24 hour period. Place the pad back on the plastic liner or a clean surface with the gel side facing up between uses. Do not wash the pad with soaps or detergents. If the pad becomes cloudy or milky, discard it and use a new one.

References

1. Jiménez Gómez MI et al. Breastfeed Med. 2021; 16(4):325–331.

2. Eaglstein WH. Moist wound healing with occlusive dressings: A clinical focus. Dermatol Surg. 2001;27(2):175–181.

3. Nuutila K, Eriksson E. Moist Wound Healing with Commonly Available Dressings. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle. ). 2021; 10(12):685–698.

4. Broussard KC, Powers JG. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2013; 14(6):449–459

5. Brent N et al. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1998; 152(11):1077–1082.

6. Dodd V, Chalmers C. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2003; 32(4):486–494.

7. Shen Z et al. Polymers. 2023; 15:2000.

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Sore nipples. dry skin
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Ultra-breathable Nursing Pads absorb 50x their own weight to help keep you dry and confident. 

A 7g Purelan™ lanolin cream from Medela in travel size.
Purelan™ 100 Lanolin Cream

Purelan™ - lanolin cream

In the first few days and weeks of frequent breastfeeding, many women experience nipple soreness and dry skin. Purelan™ lanolin cream gives you fast relief for sore nipples and dry skin.

Medela Contact™ Nipple Shields
Contact™ Nipple Shields

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Medela Contact™ Nipple Shields offer temporary support to you and baby with latching, protecting nipples during breastfeeding and support healing of any cracks.

The Medela Ultra-breathable Nursing Pads have been developed for optimum air circulation.
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