When new moms think about their babies, they usually think about some essential things. However, collecting stuff to help moms recover, such as postpartum pads, is also necessary. After giving birth, mothers may experience postpartum bleeding for up to six weeks. Postpartum pads can provide comfortable and leak-proof protection during this time. They care for a newborn and recover after delivery all at once. This blog will give an in-depth analysis of why postpartum pads are necessary and how they can assist new mothers in their recovery.
What Are Postpartum Pads?
Postpartum bleeding is often heavier than an average period, especially within the first 10 days. Maternity pads designed for such heavy flow absorbency make new moms feel comfortable. With these on, mothers remain at ease throughout the recovery process. These pads are more oversized and absorb more than regular sanitary towels. They also have wings that make them longer and broader at the back.
Most pregnancy pads contain a gentle cushioning material. Moms with stitches, general pain, discomfort, and swelling need this comfort. Other than being more absorbent than regular menstrual pads, postpartum ones are gentler. The vagina might get tears or cuts around it after childbirth. Using internal menstrual products increases the chances of getting infected.
What Should You Look For In Postpartum Pads?
Post-baby delivery, bleeding can be heavy and uncomfortable. It would be ideal if you had supportive and comfy maternity pads. You must tend to your newborn and heal from childbirth. Here are some things to look for in a postpartum pad.
It should be soft on the skin
A postpartum pad should have a soft touch on the skin. If you’ve delivered recently, you may feel pain and tenderness. This is even more important if there has been stitching. So, make a wise choice when selecting one.
Source: Freepik
They should be breathable
Your postpartum pads should allow air to pass through them as they cover your vaginal area. This will help keep the area dry. Moreover, this will not promote infection but lead to better healing.
Good absorbing capacity
The first few days following childbirth may involve very heavy vaginal bleeding. This is due to the expulsion of tissue and blood from the uterus. Therefore, these pads come with heavy flow management in mind. So it does not leak when used for this purpose.
They should be flexible
You might be looking after your child while also trying to recover from giving birth. Your pregnancy pads must bend with your body, ensuring there is no leakage, whether sitting, standing, or lying down.
It should give good support
Many changes may occur in your body once you give birth. As such, the postpartum pads come with support that makes one feel more secure. A good pad is less likely to shift while you move around. When standing up or lying down, the bottom should be long enough such that it cannot leak through. Furthermore, after delivery, there are various postpartum essentials that women should have with them.
Choosing pregnancy pads correctly can significantly affect how comfortable and confident one feels after delivery.
Source: Freepik
Maternity Pads: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose an appropriate size and absorbency. Some have self-stick adhesive strips on their backside.
- Ensure that you thoroughly wash your hands before doing all this.
- Unfold the pad and, if necessary, remove any folded or flattened wings during storage.
- Fold the wing about the sides of your undergarment to prevent leaking. Smooth out every fold on them for a comfortable feel.
- If the pad does not feel right, reposition it or consider a larger one.
- Change them frequently, especially within a few days after childbirth. Stick to time limits as recommended by manufacturers.
- Wash your hands before putting on maternity pads or changing them. However, use warm, soapy water or mild, non-abrasive detergent if the doctor advises.
When To Call The Doctor About Postpartum Bleeding?
It’s normal for bleeding to be heavy after childbirth. However, see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Temperature over 100.4 ℉
- Increased bleeding.
- Severe stomach pains.
- Big or frequent clots.
- Unusual-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Vomiting.
- Swelling is increasing.
- Breasts that are tender, red, or hot to the touch.
These signs could mean infection. In sporadic cases, someone could have postpartum hemorrhage. One needs to handle such a situation immediately.
Mothers might seek medical help immediately if any of the following cases occur:
- Sudden bleeding.
- Bleeding that starts and stops again.
- Dizziness or fainting.
While pregnancy pads can help control normal postpartum bleeding, knowing when to call a doctor is essential.
To Sum It Up
In conclusion, postpartum bleeding is a typical aspect of the healing process that follows childbirth. One can easily manage the same using the best postpartum pads. Nevertheless, it is important to distinguish when one requires medical assistance. A new mother experiencing heavy blood flow, large lumps of blood, and intense pain should immediately inform her healthcare provider. Understanding all these signals will help ensure an individual’s safe and quick recovery process. When caring for their newborns, new mothers should also take care of themselves without hesitation and for this they should choose the best pads for postpartum. Watching their body conditions and knowing when they must attend physicians are crucial for their health.
References
WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2023, April 23). What are postpartum pads? WebMD.
Romsons. (2023, June 21). How to find the best maternity pads: A guide for new mothers.
