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Hydrogel pads

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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.

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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

Parts included & General information

4 x Individually wrapped sterile pads

Instructions for use & Downloads

Downloads

Instructions for use (pdf)
Hydrogel Pads: How do they ease nipple pain? (pdf)

Recommended by Experts and Midwifes Based on advanced research and observing natural behavior.

Recommended by Experts and Midwifes

Effective relief for Milk Stasis and helps clear blocked ducts, reducing discomfort and supporting breast health.
Encourages natural milk expression, ensuring a steady supply for your baby while preventing supply issues.
Developed based on scientific studies and inspired by natural infant suckling patterns for safe and effective use.

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 regeneration^2,3
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 endings^3,6

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.

FAQ

Hydrogel pads

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.

Are Hydrogel Pads safe for breastfeeding?

Yes, Medela Hydrogel Pads are dermatologically tested and free from preservatives, making them safe to use during breastfeeding. Always remove the pad before nursing your baby and gently clean your breast with warm water.

Can I store Hydrogel Pads in the refrigerator?

Yes, for an extra cooling effect, you can store unopened Hydrogel Pads in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before use.

What ingredients do Hydrogel Pads contain?

Hydrogel Pads are made from water, glycerol (not derived from animals), and polymer – a combination that creates their soft, cooling gel texture.

Why are Hydrogel Pads sticky?

Hydrogel Pads are sticky because this helps them stay in place on the skin. This stickiness is important in medical use dressings – it helps the pad function better by keeping it on the damaged area and supporting the healing process. The better it sticks, the more effective it is at helping wounds heal.

Are Hydrogel Pads safe to use on open wounds?

Yes, our Hydrogel Pads are safe and classified as a medical device in both the EU and US. They are designed for use on damaged tissue. The product is sterilized using a validated high-dose process to ensure safety, especially for use on delicate or broken skin, like sore or cracked nipples. As a result of this sterilization process, some users may notice a slight yellow tint or a mild odor. This is normal and will not affect the safety or effectiveness of the product. There are no health risks associated with these characteristics.

How does Hydrogel Pad use compare with Purelan™?

Purelan™ is ideal for soothing and hydrating sore, dry nipples when the skin is intact. It’s safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and can be applied regularly with clean hands.

If the nipple is cracked or the skin is broken – often due to friction or from poor latch by the baby at the breast – Hydrogel Pads are more suitable. They provide cooling pain relief and create a moist environment that supports skin recovery. With their soft, cushiony texture, they form a protective barrier to avoid rubbing and further damage and reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

Can I use Purelan™ and Hydrogel Pads together?

No, combining them is not recommended as it may compromise product effectiveness.

Use Purelan™ if nipples are dry, red, or sore but the skin is unbroken. Use Hydrogel Pads if the skin is cracked or broken – apply to the nipple and areola between feeds for up to 24 hours. Continue for 3–5 days until the skin has healed, then switch back to Purelan™ for ongoing hydration and comfort.