What’s the first thing you think about after welcoming your new baby? Maybe it’s cuddles and tiny fingers, but for many, it’s also about figuring out what to wear downstairs. Postpartum bleeding, often called lochia, is a real part of the recovery process, and choosing the right pads feels like another big decision on an already long list.
It can feel overwhelming standing in the aisle, surrounded by so many shapes and sizes. Are you worried about leaks? Do you need something super soft? Finding pads that truly offer comfort and protection when your body needs gentle care can be tough. You want to focus on your baby, not on discomfort.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to look for in postpartum pads—from absorbency levels to materials that won’t irritate sensitive skin. By the end, you will feel confident grabbing the perfect pack for your recovery journey.
Top Pads Post Birth Recommendations
- MAXIMUM ABSORBANCY: Postpartum pads for women after birth designed with 6 layers that catch all the bladder leaks and blood clots for max absorbency.
- DESIGNED FOR POSTPARTUM: Postpartum pads provide leak-proof protection against heavy flow. Essential for both vaginal or c-section recovery.
- LEAK-PROOF CONFIDENCE: Absorbent core, innovative side walls and a waterproof bottom layer evenly distribute and trap fluids for added confidence.
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN: Full front-to-back design and a pillowy soft top layer provide coverage and comfort.
- NO BS INGREDIENTS: Made without fragrance, chlorine or dye.
- CLEAN, SECURE, CATCH, ALL-IN-ONE: Experience unmatched protection with PurComfy postpartum pads, specially designed to handle post-birth challenges. Say goodbye to standard pads as ours offer maximum defense against clots and bladder leaks. Embrace the first few weeks after childbirth confidently with our super-absorbent maxi pads, catering to all your needs, whether it's a vaginal or C-Section delivery. Feel secure and comfortable throughout this crucial postpartum phase.
- NEW DESIGN FOR NEW MOMS: Anatomically shaped with wings, they perfectly fit your body's natural contours. The Leak guard ensures maximum protection even during heavy bleeding. The adhesive back and wings keep the pads securely in place. Experience added comfort with the extra cushion absorbent layer made of grounded and compressed cotton, providing a fluffy feel and worry-free leakage protection. Individually wrapped in medical-grade non-woven fabric for ultimate hygiene.
- PREMIUM BEGAIN FROM MATERIAL: Thoughtfully crafted for tender, sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested, they ensure utmost care without compromising on absorption. Made from super soft materials, these naturally contoured postpartum pads provide discreet, heavy-duty protection during postpartum bleeding. Trust in our internationally-recognized quality for the comfort and confidence you need after childbirth.
- COMFORT THROUGH DAY & NIGHT: Loved by 1 Million new moms, the PurComfy Large Postpartum Flow Pads are expertly designed to maximize airflow, relieving frustration when worn during day time. Plus, these Maternity Peri Pads have an 80% larger back that delivers up to 12 hours of night defense for protection in any position at night. Natural component for your skin reduces irritation by using pure cotton to the wings, soft touch like underwear.
- PURE COMFORT, MADE EASIER: Discover the perfect postpartum pads for your unique needs and preferences. Our thoughtful selection process ensures that new moms receive the utmost comfort and care during their recovery from childbirth. Embrace this exciting journey into parenthood while allowing yourself ample time and space to heal. Prioritize your physical and emotional well-being with our tailored postpartum pads. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential during this transitional season.
- INSTANT COLD THERAPY: instant first aid ice packs built into the pad that delivers the recommended 20-minute therapy window. No freezer necessary.
- ABSORBENT MATERNITY MAXI PAD: Pad absorbs 260g of liquid beyond the cold therapy period.
- CUSHION SUPPORT: Super soft top layer for comfort in the perineal area and option to use for soft cold therapy on c-section incision.
- FULL COVERAGE: Pad covers the entire perineal area from front to back with an adhesive back for easy application and removal.
- NEW FRIDA MOM, CREATED BY FRIDABABY, the makers of NoseFrida, Fridet the MomWasher, and the best selling baby care kits
![Vakly Extra Large Postpartum Maternity Pads [40 Pack] Hospital Style Super-Absorbent Contoured Pad Liners - 7' Wide X 14' Long - Heavier Overnight Post Birth Protection for Women - Incontinence Liners](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41ReuQVVpqL._SL160_.jpg)
- Pads That Offer Ample Coverage - Vakly oversized liner pads are designed for both postpartum maternity care as well as incontinence. Each pad measures 14-inch on the long side and a 7-inch on the short side giving more than enough coverage and protection. Making these liners great after having a baby and overnight leak protection.
- Super Absorbent Leak Protection– Our postpartum pads for women are made with a well-balanced inner core with a combination of fluff and polymer for max absorbency. Vakly XL maxi pads are designed to handle post-birth challenges such as heavier postpartum flows, bladder leaks, and blood clots.
- Discreet Contoured Shape – Each of these absorbent feminine care pads easily bend to follow the body's natural shape. They offer a more discreet, natural and comfortable fit with better protection and ideal positioning for new moms.
- Full Length Adhesive Strip – Experience lasting protection with Vakly post birth maternity pads. Each extra-long hospital style sanitary pad features a peel away adhesive strip that stretches the full length of the back side of the pad, keeping the pad securely in place.
- Multifunctional High Absorbency Pads – Vakly overnight pads are designed for multifunctionality purposes and can be used as postpartum maxi pads, incontinence liners and booster pads. Designed to be worn with both knit/mesh pants or underwear.
- MULTIPLE SIZES - This new mommy essentials kit includes two different size postpartum pads for women after birth, including 22 large extra absorbent pads and 18 medium, discreet pads
- LARGE PADS WITH EXTRA ABSORBENCY - Perfect for 0-2 weeks after birth, these super-absorbent maternity pads with a wider back are designed for lochia (post-birth bleeding) when you need more than a sanitary or bladder control pad.
- MEDIUM PADS FOR COMFORT AND PROTECTION - Our medium size maternity pads are discreet and absorbent, designed to be used 2+ weeks after birth when you have lighter postpartum bleeding and require less coverage.
- SECURE, COMFORTABLE FIT - Naturally contoured with adhesive wings, our pads wrap around your postpartum underwear to stay securely in place giving you peace of mind that you have full coverage during the postpartum period.
- SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN – Crafted from soft, breathable materials & fragrance free, our postpartum pads are gentle on tender, sensitive skin giving you comfort without irritation.
![Vakly Extra Large Postpartum Maternity Pads [20 Pack] Hospital Style Super-Absorbent Contoured Pad Liners - 7' Wide X 14' Long - Heavier Overnight Post Birth Protection for Women - Incontinence Liners](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41vwB5cLt3L._SL160_.jpg)
- Pads That Offer Ample Coverage - Vakly oversized liner pads are designed for both postpartum maternity care as well as incontinence. Each pad measures 14-inch on the long side and a 7-inch on the short side giving more than enough coverage and protection. Making these liners great after having a baby and overnight leak protection.
- Super Absorbent Leak Protection– Our postpartum pads for women are made with a well-balanced inner core with a combination of fluff and polymer for max absorbency. Vakly XL maxi pads are designed to handle post-birth challenges such as heavier postpartum flows, bladder leaks, and blood clots.
- Discreet Contoured Shape – Each of these absorbent feminine care pads easily bend to follow the body's natural shape. They offer a more discreet, natural and comfortable fit with better protection and ideal positioning for new moms.
- Full Length Adhesive Strip – Experience lasting protection with Vakly post birth maternity pads. Each extra-long hospital style sanitary pad features a peel away adhesive strip that stretches the full length of the back side of the pad, keeping the pad securely in place.
- Multifunctional High Absorbency Pads – Vakly overnight pads are designed for multifunctionality purposes and can be used as postpartum maxi pads, incontinence liners and booster pads. Designed to be worn with both knit/mesh pants or underwear.
- POISE INCONTINENCE PADS: 20 incontinence and postpartum bladder leak pads, 4 Drop Moderate Absorbency, regular length (20 pads total)
- INSTANT ABSORBTION: Poise pads for women instantly absorb and rapidly lock away more wetness than the leading period pad for amazing dryness
- UP TO ZERO ODOR: Each incontinence pad is made with odor-reducing material and helps control odor for up to 12 hours
- WETNESS PROTECTION: These women’s incontinence pads are made with a moisture-wicking top layer designed to feel dry throughout wear
- UP TO ZERO LEAKS: Poise Incontinence Pads for Women are 25x drier than the leading period pad and offer up to 12 hours of bladder leak protection
- Hello Mama, this one's for you: Support your body’s transition with The Honey Pot Herbal Post Partum Pads that combine the power of herbs with our absorbent technology to create a pad that is breathable
- We created our community favorite herbal pads with supreme absorbency and cooling sensations to ensure you are secure and protected throughout your cycle
- Infused with the Power of Herbs including lavender, rose, aloe vera and mint that provides a cooling sensation for worry free moments when needed most with maximum absorbency without leakage
- Designed with an OCS certified organic cotton cover with wings and ultra absorbent wood pulp core that is clinically, gynecologist and dermatologist tested
- A message from our founder Bea Dixon: I was suffering with BV when an ancestor came to me in a dream and gifted me with a vision to heal myself; With her help I created The Honey Pot feminine care powered by herbs that is backed by science, clinically and gynecologist tested; Made by humans with vaginas, for humans with vaginas because it takes one to know one
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Post-Birth Pads
Bringing a new baby home is amazing! After birth, your body needs special care. Post-birth pads (also called maternity pads) help manage the bleeding that happens afterward. Choosing the right pad makes a big difference in your comfort. This guide helps you pick the perfect ones.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for post-birth pads, some features really matter for comfort and protection.
- Absorbency Level: You will bleed more right after birth. Look for “Overnight” or “Maximum” absorbency first. You can switch to lighter pads later.
- Length and Width: Bigger pads offer better coverage, especially when you are moving around or sleeping. Make sure the pad is long enough to catch everything.
- Wings: Wings help hold the pad securely in your underwear. This stops it from shifting when you walk or nurse.
- Breathability: Your skin needs to breathe down there. Breathable pads help keep the area dry and reduce irritation.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used in the pad affect how comfortable and safe it is for sensitive skin.
Most good maternity pads use soft, non-woven topsheets. These feel gentle against your skin. Look for pads labeled as “cotton-like” or “hypoallergenic.” These materials are less likely to cause rashes or itching.
The inner core needs to absorb liquid quickly. Many quality pads use super-absorbent polymers (SAP) inside a soft pulp layer. This pulls moisture away fast. Avoid pads that feel stiff or plastic-like; these trap heat and moisture.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality pads offer peace of mind. Poor quality pads can cause leaks or discomfort.
What Improves Quality:
- Contour Shape: Pads shaped to fit your body curves offer better leak protection.
- Odor Control: Some pads include light, safe ingredients that help neutralize smells.
- Individually Wrapped: This keeps the pads clean and makes them easy to toss in your hospital bag or diaper bag.
What Reduces Quality:
- Heavy Perfumes: Strong scents can irritate sensitive postpartum skin. Unscented is usually best.
- Thin Adhesive Strips: If the sticky strip on the back is weak, the pad will move around, leading to leaks.
- Stiff Edges: Hard edges rub against your skin and cause chafing, making movement painful.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and when you will use these pads most often.
Hospital Stay: The hospital usually gives you basic mesh underwear and large pads. However, bringing your own high-absorbency pads ensures you have what you need right away, especially for the first 24 hours.
Sleeping: Use the largest, thickest pads you can find at night. You will be sleeping on your side or back, and you need full protection.
Daytime Movement: When you are walking around or caring for the baby, you need a pad that stays put. Look for wings here. You might switch to a slightly smaller size once the heavy bleeding lessens after the first few days.
Sensitivity: If you had tearing or stitches, comfort is king. Choose the softest, most breathable pads, even if they are slightly bulkier. You want zero friction!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Post-Birth Pads
Q: How many pads do I need in total?
A: Most people use about 8 to 12 very heavy pads per day for the first 2-3 days. Buy at least two large packs, focusing on maximum absorbency first.
Q: Can I use regular heavy flow menstrual pads instead?
A: You can use them later on, usually after the first week. Post-birth bleeding (lochia) is heavier and lasts longer than a period, so regular pads are often not wide or absorbent enough initially.
Q: When should I start using lighter pads?
A: Listen to your body. If you notice the bleeding has significantly lightened (more spotting than flow), you can switch to an overnight menstrual pad or a lighter maternity pad.
Q: Are maternity pads disposable or reusable?
A: Most are disposable for convenience and hygiene. However, reusable cloth maternity pads exist if you prefer an eco-friendly option. They require frequent washing.
Q: Do I need wings on my pads?
A: Yes, wings are highly recommended. They keep the large pad firmly inside your large disposable underwear or maternity briefs, which prevents leaks when you move.
Q: How long do I need to wear these special pads?
A: Bleeding can last up to six weeks, but the heavy flow usually stops within the first week. You will likely use maternity pads for the first 10 days before switching completely to regular products.
Q: Are unscented pads really better?
A: Yes, for most people. The genital area is very sensitive after birth. Perfumes or dyes in scented products can cause itching or burning sensations.
Q: How do I store my post-birth pads?
A: Keep them in a cool, dry place. Make sure you pack a few packs in your hospital bag so you have them ready to go the moment you deliver!
Q: Are maternity pads bulky?
A: Yes, the heavy-duty ones are quite thick compared to regular pads. This bulk is necessary for superior absorption and protection during those first few crucial days.
Q: Can I use these pads for C-section recovery?
A: Absolutely. C-section recovery still involves significant bleeding, and these pads provide the necessary coverage without irritating the incision site, especially if worn with supportive mesh underwear.