After giving birth, in the postpartum stage, many women will experience six weeks of bleeding. This is normal and a part of the birthing process, but it sure isn’t fun. You can make it a little simpler on yourself by preparing and purchasing some of the best postpartum pads in advance.
There are some great postpartum pad options on the market and knowing when to use pads and what to shop for will save you time and the hassle of trying to find the best pads when you need them. They can even offer some great relief, especially when you make them into padsicles. Yeah, that is a thing and you are seriously missing out if you don’t make at least a few to bring yourself some much-needed comfort!
Why use Postpartum Pads
After you give birth your uterus begins the healing process from growing, carrying, and birthing the baby. part of your uterus recovering includes repairing itself from where the placenta was attached. during this repairing and healing is when you experience significant bleeding, which lasts for upwards of six weeks.
Bleeding and cramping during this time is normal and you may experience passing clots as well. The bleeding may intensify if you do too much too soon. Pay attention to the rate at which you bleed and your pain level. Take it, easy mama! Your body has been through so much, and there’s no rush to jump back into your old ways of life.
Postpartum pads are typically large overnight-style pads that you will use during the first week or two after giving birth. As the bleeding slows and the healing continues you can transition to your typical period pads.
After giving birth you will likely be recommended not to use tampons or menstrual cups, as the uterus and birthing canal are healing. Inserting anything can introduce bacteria and result in an infection. It is best for your body to heal naturally. This implies only using disposable menstrual pads, cloth menstrual pads, or period underwear during this postpartum period.
When to use Postpartum Pads
You will begin using these pads immediately after you give birth. The first week is often the most challenging as you will experience heavy bleeding and cramps as well as pain and swelling. numerous women choose to use adult diapers and pads together to decrease leaking and help position things in the best area. I know wearing a diaper probably is not how you imagine the beginning of motherhood, but it really will make things easier. This phase will pass before you know it, so just focus on soaking up that sweet baby.
In the second week, you can relocation to overnight or larger pads compared to needing an adult diaper and pad system. This is when you have a lot of choice and variety to decide which will work best for you.
The best pads for the remainder of the six weeks will depend on the following:
Comfort: you want something that fits well and feels comfortable throughout the day
Size: the pad ought to be large enough to cover but not too large so it stays in the best place
Absorption: the bigger the pad the much more it will hold
With wings: the wings will help keep the larger pads in place and will decrease leaks
When choosing disposable postpartum pads you may want to start with the same brand you use during your period or menstrual cycle. This brand may deliver what you like about your go-to pad in a larger, much more absorbent postpartum option.
Types of Pads
There are two main types of postpartum pads: disposable and cloth or reusable. There are a broad variety of options within each of these categories, but disposable pads are much more readily available in many stores. Either option is fine, but keep in mind you will be busy and pretty exhausted. because of this numerous new mothers choose the disposable option.
The best Postpartum Pads
Disposable Postpartum Pads
Always Maxi Overnight
The always Maxi Overnight pads are a top choice for postpartum bleeding because they’re large, comfortable, and readily available. These pads are developed to wick liquid away rapidly and have a stay dry top layer to decrease wetness. The larger back reduces leaks and helps you feel protected through the night. check pricing here.
Poise Incontinence Pads
Many women use Poise Incontinence Pads because they are developed to catch leaks caused by weak muscles from childbirth. These pads are larger, much more absorbent, and shaped to curve in all the best ways. The overnight option has a larger back to catch leaks and is even much more absorbent than the dailies. purchase yours now!
U by Kotex extra heavy Overnight
An extra heavy overnight option that is thinner and feels much more like a daily wear pad is the U by Kotex extra heavy Overnight pads. These pads have a special core that collects liquid rapidly while keeping your skin dry. The shape and materials in this pad give you flexibility with the required coverage and the soft sides make them much more comfortable than the bulkier options. here is a link to pricing.
Stayfree Ultra thin Overnight Pads
Stayfree is often a go-to brand for an average period and their ultra-thin overnight pads may be a good postpartum option. The overnight with wings has an all-in-one feature to absorb and protect, with both leaks and period bleeding. There’s a night guard zone to help you sleep better and feel protected all night, with extra-wide coverage and wings to help it stay in place. check out the current pricing here.
All natural Pads
Natracare Pads
Natracare is a company that offers natural, plastic-free, organic pads that are specifically developed for maternity use. Each pad has a soft, fluffy, and absorbent core, with no severe chemicals. These pads fit well, have a good shape, and are built to be comfortable without the added frills of some other brands. purchase yours now!
The Honey Pot company Postpartum Pads
The Honey Pot company makes a pad specifically developed for postpartum use. These pads have natural ingredients which makes them great for sensitive skin and promotes healing. The postpartum line includes ingredients that feel cool as well as dry. Each pad is infused with essential oils to keep you feeling fresh. purchase yours here.
Cloth Menstrual Pads
Charlie Banana very plus reusable feminine Pad
If you plan on going the reusable route, Charlie Banana makes a fantastic postpartum pad. It is very easy to clean and stain-resistant. Not to mention, it is incredibly absorbent. You can find them on Amazon in a pretty lavender color or plain white.
I love that they come in a three-pack so that you are never left stranded if you need to throw some in the wash. Props to you for being an environmentally friendly mama!
WeeEssentials Gusset Shell
If you have never heard of a Gusset shell before, we are in the same boat. This product is a total lifesaver if you want to use reusable pads. It is essentially a waterproof menstrual pad shell, which implies you can simply wipe it off to clean it. any cloth pad of your choice can go inside. This man will just offer you with some extra protection. Bonus, this is a super-easy way to make a padsicle as you can slide an icepack best inside. check them out here!
Have questions about the postpartum experience? feel totally free to ask in the comments Or ask a question in our Rookie mothers Facebook Group, it’s a great group of mothers where you can share your experiences, ask for guidance and even help out another mom!