Focus on your little one and rest assured – you’re covered with these postpartum pads. Compare our picks below!
Our Top Picks
The healing phase was a rollercoaster for me after giving birth to my son. Thankfully I was well equipped with a postpartum healing kit, including witch hazel, a Perri bottle, padsicles, and more. I can’t tell you the number of times I told my partner, “Thank goodness we stocked up on these items”. Through that indescribable period of recovery, knowing my healing areas were covered and well cared for was my saving grace.
Trust me, if your baby is on the way, you’ll want these preparations in order long before they arrive. But how do you know which postpartum pads are best to stock up on?
Have no fear, mom-to-be. I’ve compiled this handy comparison of all the top postpartum pads out there so you can stock up on the best of the best. And yes, I’ve even included my own personal favorites so you can rest and heal in peace and comfort. Whether you’re on the hunt for a pack of 50+ to stay stocked up or want to indulge in some soothing padsicles, this comparison includes the postpartum pads you’ll need for this chapter.
1
Frida Mom Postpartum Kit – Complete Set
This one is our top favorite because, in addition to postpartum pads, this kit includes a total of 15 essential items you need to prepare for labor and postpartum recovery. The peri bottle is essential for postpartum care and helps with cleansing and healing. The disposable underwear is comfortable and convenient for those first few days after delivery, and the perineal foam and ice maxi pads provide soothing relief to sore areas. The toiletry bag is the perfect size for all your recovery items so you can easily stash it in your hospital bag. And don’t forget the comfy grip socks and soft nursing gown – while not necessary for healing, these are huge bonuses after giving birth.
Comprehensive kit with all essentials for postpartum recovery
witch hazel bottle is long lasting
Includes ice maxi pads
Only 4 postpartum pads
2
Lil-Lets Postpartum Pads
These extra-long postpartum pads are extra absorbent, soft, and cushioned, so you have one less thing to worry about in those early postpartum days. With adhesive wings, these pads stay in place all day long. Fragrance-free and made from high-quality materials, these pads are gentle on sensitive, healing skin and won’t cause any irritation. The 30-pack bundle is perfect for stocking up so new moms can focus on their little ones.
Extra-long & super absorbent
Soft & cushioned
Free from perfumes
dyes
and chlorine bleach
May lack adhesive at the front
3
Frida Mom Postpartum Pads – 2-in-1 Pads + Instant Cold Therapy Packs
Next up, we have these postpartum pads designed for new mothers. These padsicles blend absorbency and cold therapy, soothing and healing the perineal area after childbirth. These pads are easy to use in those early postpartum days – simply bend and shake them and the ice is activated to provide immediate relief to sore and swollen areas. The highly absorbent maternity pads ensure maximum protection, day or night. These ready-to-use padsicles are an essential addition to any new mother’s postpartum recovery kit.
Single-step medicated pad liner
Offers instant cooling relief for the perineal
Made with medicated witch hazel
Cooling effect may be for a short period
4
Poise Postpartum Pads
These pads provide reliable protection, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable, day or night. Ideal for postpartum recovery, they’re designed to handle bladder leaks or heavy postpartum flow. The length of these pads provides maximum coverage, while the 96-count packaging allows you to rest easy knowing you’re covered. The innovative design of these pads features an absorb-lock core that quickly locks in wetness and odor, keeping you fresh and at ease.
Maximum absorbency for postpartum bleeding
Features odor control technology
Soft & comfortable
Pads may be too wide for certain undergarments
5
PurComfy Postpartum Pads
These extra-long maternity pads are ideal for new mothers. With powerful leak protection and extra heavy absorbency, these postpartum pads are designed to handle those early days after childbirth. The added wings on these pads ensure they stay in place without bunching or shifting, providing maximum comfort and protection during a time when you need it most. Made with soft, breathable materials, these pads are gentle on sensitive, healing skin while still providing the level of protection you need.
Adhesive wings for a secure fit
Made from hypoallergenic material
Worry-free leakage protection
Pads may be too long for some users
6
Amazon Basics Postpartum Pads
With its maximum absorbency and long length, these postpartum pads are designed to provide reliable protection during those first few weeks after childbirth. The absorbency level of these pads assures comfort day or night, so you can focus on your little one in those early days. And importantly, these are unscented so your sensitive areas can steer clear of harsh perfumes. The pack of 39 pads is all you need to stay dry and comfortable through your healing process.
Maximum absorbency
Dri-Fit technology helps control moisture
Dual odor control
Bulkier design may not be as discreet
FAQ
Q: How often do I need to change postpartum pads?
A: It is recommended to change postpartum pads every 1-2 hours, especially in the first few days after giving birth. As the bleeding decreases, you can gradually increase the time between changes.
Q: How long should I use postpartum pads?
A: You should use postpartum pads for at least 6 weeks after giving birth, or until your bleeding has stopped completely. It is important to follow your doctor’s advice on when to stop using them.
Q: Can I use postpartum pads for bladder leakage?
A: Yes, many postpartum pads are designed to handle both post-birth bleeding and light to moderate bladder leakage. These pads offer maximum absorbency and leak protection, making them suitable for managing incontinence issues that some women experience after childbirth. They often feature rapid-absorption cores and leak guards to keep you dry and comfortable.
Q: How do postpartum pads help with perineal pain and swelling?
A: Some postpartum pads come with cooling properties or can be refrigerated before use to provide soothing relief for perineal pain and swelling. These pads often contain ingredients like witch hazel, which has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Using these pads can help reduce swelling, soothe irritated skin, and promote healing after childbirth. They are particularly beneficial for women who have had an episiotomy or experienced perineal tears during delivery.
Q: How many postpartum pads should I have on hand after giving birth?
A: It’s advisable to have a substantial supply of postpartum pads ready before giving birth, as you will need to change them frequently, especially in the first few days. On average, women use 6-8 pads per day initially, so having at least 2-3 packs (with each pack containing around 30 pads) is a good starting point. As the bleeding decreases, you can switch to lighter pads and adjust your supply accordingly. Always having extra pads on hand ensures you are prepared for any unexpected changes in bleeding patterns.
Article Contributors
Joslyn Valente
Joslyn Valente is a trends and cultures writer with a background in political science. From international political reports to advice pieces on market trends for large scale companies, writing brings Joslyn to life. Born and raised in North Carolina, USA, you can now find Joslyn blissfully adjusting to new motherhood in the Netherlands with her partner and son. When Joslyn isn’t writing, she’s reading Eric Carle board books to her baby or cycling through the Dutch countryside.
