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\u2019s why you need specific absorbent pads. But how should you choose them?<\/p>\n
May sheds some light on the subject.<\/p>\n
After childbirth and in the weeks that follow, you may notice bleeding<\/strong> also known as \u201clochia.\u201d For this postpartum bleeding, you will need more absorbent sanitary protection<\/strong> than usual. Also called maternity pads, they are specially designed for lochia and are generally thicker and wider than regular sanitary pads. Lochia stops on average 2 to 3 weeks after childbirth<\/strong> (note that this is only an average; it may stop anywhere between 3 days and 6 weeks, depending on the woman). Postpartum pads are specifically designed for postpartum bleeding<\/strong> and generally share the same characteristics<\/strong> from one brand to another. To be effective and prevent leaks, they must be highly absorbent, fairly wide, and thick.<\/p>\n Yes! There are many sanitary pad brands specifically designed for postpartum use<\/strong>. During this postpartum period, dedicated sanitary pads are generally recommended. However, you can also opt for adult diapers<\/strong> (which can be very comfortable!). They are just as effective.
\nLochia 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<\/strong> (physiologically caused by the detachment of the placenta after childbirth) and vaginal tissue, fragments of placental membrane, and blood clots.<\/p>\n
\nIndeed, their main purpose is to absorb lochia<\/strong> and any potential urinary leaks after childbirth.
\nGood to know: for proper support and greater comfort, you are generally advised to wear disposable underwear<\/strong> or mesh underwear. They are also included on your maternity hospital bag checklist!<\/p>\nHow long should I use special postpartum pads?<\/h2>\n
\nYou can use postpartum pads for as long as necessary<\/strong>. The intensity of the bleeding varies and decreases over time, so it\u2019s up to you to decide what best suits your needs.<\/p>\nWhat are the characteristics of the most effective postpartum pads?<\/h2>\n
Are there sanitary pad brands specifically designed for after childbirth?<\/h2>\n
\nFor guidance, don\u2019t hesitate to ask your midwife, at the maternity ward, or at your pharmacy, where you will find a wide selection of postpartum protection<\/strong> 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!<\/p>\nHow do I choose between pads, tampons, or other products for lochia?<\/h2>\n
\nYou may have considered period underwear<\/strong>, 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\u2019s important to be able to observe this bleeding right after childbirth\u2026
\nAlthough the amount of bleeding is important, it should remain reasonable<\/strong>. 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<\/strong> 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!
\nDid you know?
\nOnce the bleeding has decreased<\/strong>, you can absolutely switch to period underwear instead of diapers and sanitary pads.
\nPlease note that tampons or menstrual cups are not recommended<\/strong> because they carry a risk of infection. It is therefore best not to use them during this period.<\/p>\n