The Best Postpartum Pads for 2023
The Best Postpartum Pads to Wear After Birth
It doesn’t matter if you have a vaginal birth, or a c-section, you’re going to need to stock up on the best postpartum pads to get you through the weeks after birth. Vaginal bleeding after birth, also known as lochia, is your body’s way of getting rid of the extra blood, mucus, and tissue in your uterus. Postpartum bleeding can last up to six weeks, so you’ll want to stock up on plenty of maxi-pads or sanitary napkins. Here are the 9 best postpartum pads for new moms.
Best Postpartum Pads for Heavy Bleeding – Always Discreet
In the first 5-7 days after birth, you will probably have a pretty heavy flow. Always Discreet underwear are your best bet to keep you feeling comfortable and protected from leaks. These disposable underwear have a double leak guard and rapid dry core. They’re not bulky, like other adult diapers, and will give you amazing protection both day and night. Many new moms agree that ditching the traditional pads and going straight to these adult diapers is the way to go after birth.
Best Postpartum Pads after Vaginal Birth – Honey Pot
The honey pot herbal infused pads are amazing for any woman recovering from a vaginal birth. These absorbent pads are infused with mint, lavender, and aloe to provide comfort and pain relief during postpartum. Honey pot pads are all natural and made with clean cotton.
Best Postpartum Pads for Stitches – Frida Mom
Frida mom continues to revolutionize postpartum products for new moms. Their new Instant Ice Maxi Pads provide pain relief and protection from leaks. This pad has a built in first aid ice pack that stays cold for up to twenty minutes, making it the best pad for moms with stitches. It has cushion support, full coverage, and can absorb up to 260g of liquid. You can help heal your stiches and protect yourself from leaks with these awesome new pads.
Best Reusable Postpartum Pads – Thinx
Thinx aren’t actually pads at all. They’re underwear that are made with innovative technology that gives them the ability to absorb up to 5 tampons worth of blood. They have a moisture wicking top layer that draws away wetness. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and comfortable way to manage postpartum bleeding, Thinx is for you. Their postpartum set includes two Super Cotton Briefs, two Hiphuggers, and one Super High-Waist.
Best Natural Postpartum Pads – Natracare Maternity Pads
Natracare maternity pads are some of the best natural postpartum pads on the market. They are plastic free, chlorine free, perfume free, biodegradable, and made of natural materials. Moms who use these pads during postpartum say that they are extra soft and fluffy… like a pillow for you lady parts. Natracare maternity pads are extremely absorbent and offer a snug and secure fit.
Best Cloth Pads for after Birth – Heart Felt
Heart felt pads are reusable cloth menstural pads that you can use during postpartum. They are made with bamboo, cotton, and polyester and have a charcoal absorbency layer. They offer “stay put snaps” that help keep the pad in place. These pads are machine washable, comfortable, and will save you tons of money in the long run.
Best Overnight Postpartum Pads – Always Overnight
If you’re looking for the best overnight postpartum pad, try Always Extra Heavy Overnights. These pads are especially helpful in the first days after birth. They offer an extra wide back for nighttime protection and have multiple barriers to help prevent leakage. They also come with wings to help keep things in place as your toss and turn throughout the night.
Best Organic Pads for after Birth – Rael
If you’re looking for an organic maxi-pad to help you survive postpartum bleeding, Rael is the pad for you. They’re made of 100% certified organic cotton and are safe and effective for all women with all skin types. These organic postpartum pads have wings, leak lock technology, and a super absorbent core. Rael pads are the best organic postpartum pads for new moms.
Best Postpartum Pantyliner – Cora
After a few weeks, your postpartum bleeding will slow down, just like a normal period does. At this point, you’ll probably want to use a smaller pad or pantyliner. Cora ultrathin liners are perfect for protecting you during those final days of postpartum bleeding. These ultra-thin, breathable pantyliners are made of certified organic cotton. They’re super thin, while also being super absorbent.
How Many Pads to Buy for Postpartum
There’s no sugar coating it. You’ll need a lot of pads to get you through postpartum bleeding. In the first few days after birth, you’ll want to change your pad every one to two hours. After that, you’ll want to change every three to four hours. So, for six weeks, you’ll be changing your pad about 6-12 times a day. If you want to stock up on pads before birth you’ll want to get about 250 pads. However, buying that many pads at once might not be the right way to tackle postpartum bleeding. You might not like a certain kind of pad, or might need different pads for different phases of bleeding. And, chances are, your hospital will also send you home with some pads to help you get through the first week.
Can you use a Tampon or Menstrual Cup after Birth?
Although you may not be a fan of wearing maxi-pads or sanitary napkins, they are a must after giving birth. You can not use a tampon or menstrual cup to help you manage postpartum bleeding. Putting anything into your vagina during the six weeks after birth can greatly increase the risk of infection. Not to mention, you need to give your lady bits some time to heal.
What Else do I Need for Postpartum Recovery?
Preparing yourself for postpartum recovery can feel daunting. If you’ve never done it before, you’re not exactly sure what you’re in store for, or what you’ll need. Creating a postpartum care kit is a great way to make sure you have everything you need, right when you need it. You can check out my full list of postpartum care essentials here, or shop the list on Amazon.
Final Thoughts on Postpartum Pads
Six weeks of bleeding after birth isn’t fun. It’s messy and uncomfortable, but it’s also manageable. By stocking up on the best postpartum pads, you’ll have one less thing to worry about once your newborn has arrived.
Related:
- How to Prepare for Postpartum While You’re Still Pregnant
- 14 Tips for the First 14 Days Postpartum
- How to Make Postpartum Padsicles
The Best Sanitary Napkins for New Moms
DISCLOSURE: Coffee and Coos is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. Always consult your doctor for medical advice.
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