Baby Sleep
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After nine months without having to think about restocking sanitary pads for your next period, you are now (almost) dealing with lochia. During the postpartum period, this bleeding is normal and lasts on average a few weeks. That’s why you need specific absorbent pads. But how should you choose them?
May sheds some light on the subject.
What type of sanitary pad is recommended after childbirth?
After childbirth and in the weeks that follow, you may notice bleeding also known as “lochia.”
Lochia refers to the bleeding that occurs after delivery (the expulsion of the placenta). It consists of a discharge of bright red blood (with possible clots), then pinkish, brown, or yellowish flow, with varying intensity that gradually decreases. In practical terms, lochia is made up of residual uterine wound tissue (physiologically caused by the detachment of the placenta after childbirth) and vaginal tissue, fragments of placental membrane, and blood clots.
For this postpartum bleeding, you will need more absorbent sanitary protection than usual. Also called maternity pads, they are specially designed for lochia and are generally thicker and wider than regular sanitary pads.
Indeed, their main purpose is to absorb lochia and any potential urinary leaks after childbirth.
Good to know: for proper support and greater comfort, you are generally advised to wear disposable underwear or mesh underwear. They are also included on your maternity hospital bag checklist!
How long should I use special postpartum pads?
Lochia stops on average 2 to 3 weeks after childbirth (note that this is only an average; it may stop anywhere between 3 days and 6 weeks, depending on the woman).
You can use postpartum pads for as long as necessary. The intensity of the bleeding varies and decreases over time, so it’s up to you to decide what best suits your needs.
What are the characteristics of the most effective postpartum pads?
Postpartum pads are specifically designed for postpartum bleeding and generally share the same characteristics from one brand to another. To be effective and prevent leaks, they must be highly absorbent, fairly wide, and thick.
Are there sanitary pad brands specifically designed for after childbirth?
Yes! There are many sanitary pad brands specifically designed for postpartum use.
For guidance, don’t hesitate to ask your midwife, at the maternity ward, or at your pharmacy, where you will find a wide selection of postpartum protection as well as disposable underwear. You can also visit a supermarket that offers a variety of options and browse the aisle in search of the best value for money!
How do I choose between pads, tampons, or other products for lochia?
During this postpartum period, dedicated sanitary pads are generally recommended. However, you can also opt for adult diapers (which can be very comfortable!). They are just as effective.
You may have considered period underwear, which is very practical. However, we recommend avoiding them during the first few days after childbirth since the bleeding is particularly heavy. There could be leaks and, above all, it’s important to be able to observe this bleeding right after childbirth…
Although the amount of bleeding is important, it should remain reasonable. If you need to change a maxi pad every hour, or even more frequently, because it is soaked with bright red blood, this should alert you. It may be a secondary postpartum hemorrhage, which affects 0.5 to 2% of deliveries and occurs between 24 hours and 6 weeks after childbirth. The most common cause is retained placental fragments or a uterine infection, sometimes associated with incomplete uterine involution (uterine contraction). In this case, go to the emergency room without delay!
Did you know?
Once the bleeding has decreased, you can absolutely switch to period underwear instead of diapers and sanitary pads.
Please note that tampons or menstrual cups are not recommended because they carry a risk of infection. It is therefore best not to use them during this period.
Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your pregnancy.
What tips help maintain good hygiene with postpartum bleeding?
It is recommended to change your sanitary pad every time you go to the bathroom or whenever it becomes too soaked. Keeping a pad on for too long may lead to infections due to moisture buildup. And that’s the last thing you need during the postpartum period!
So take good care of yourself — you deserve it. And because it can never be said enough, we’ll add it here: don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Are there natural or eco-friendly alternatives for managing lochia?
More and more postpartum hygiene brands are paying special attention to the composition of their products and to environmental sustainability.
Today, you have several options: sanitary pads or diapers made with natural materials, such as organic cotton, for example. The positive aspect is that this natural composition also helps prevent irritation and allergies that can cause itching.
There are also reusable sanitary pads that you can wash after each use. Don’t hesitate to ask your midwife for her opinion on these options.
You now know all the available options for sanitary protection after childbirth. If in doubt, you can also visit your pharmacy for advice.
Photo: LightFieldStudios
This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.
