Postpartum absorbents: what they are and what they are for
Postpartum pads are often mentioned on hospital packing lists, but many mothers-to-be wonder if postpartum pads are any different than those normally used for menstruation.
After childbirth, both natural and cesarean. there is bleeding (called lochia ) which is more abundant than normal menstruation. Precisely for this reason special absorbents are needed, specially indicated for postpartum. The losses can last up to 40 days and are greatest immediately after delivery, and then decrease over time until they disappear completely.
What are postpartum pads like?
Postpartum pads are exclusively external. Internal tampons , in fact, are absolutely not recommended in the puerperium , because they favor the appearance of vaginal infections.
To contain the heavy flow of postpartum discharge, these products are generally larger than those used for the menstrual cycle and have good absorbency, as well as being made of breathable materials . They are generally wingless and sometimes do not come with adhesive .
There are many types of sanitary pads on the market to be used on this occasion. It is important for the new mother to choose a comfortable model that will help her to better manage her personal hygiene in these delicate days.
For the first few days, the advice is to choose extremely large sanitary pads, therefore with a good capacity, possibly in cotton and without fragrances. Replace them often and at each change wash your private parts with water, without soap.
If you want to opt for an ecological choice, there are also washable fabric postpartum pads .
When and how are these pads used?
Postpartum pads are generally used in the days immediately following the birth of the baby, starting from the hospital stay. To ensure that the postpartum pad adheres well, we recommend the use of stretch mesh underpants , both disposable and washable .
Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.