Postpartum diapers and postpartum underwear play a crucial role in supporting the physical and emotional well-being of women during the postpartum period. They provide comfort, convenience, and security, allowing new mothers to focus on their recovery and the care of their newborns.
In the first few hours to weeks following birth, all women, no matter what their delivery (vaginal or cesarean), will experience significant vaginal bleeding and discharge, known as Lochia, according to postpartum doula Siobhan Alvarez-Borland. “Lochia, the vaginal bleeding after childbirth that consists of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue starts out heavy for the first few days and lasts up to six weeks,” she says. “Which is why all women will want to wear postpartum diapers and postpartum underwear following the birth of their child.”
Depending on what your needs and comforts are there are many options of postpartum underwear and postpartum diapers that best fit your lifestyle and needs. Some women may prefer disposable postpartum underwear and postpartum diapers so you don’t have to think about laundry, while others might prefer washable postpartum underwear that they can use with pads and ‘padsicles’—A.K.A. frozen pads. Before you decide what’s best for you, let’s dive into the best postpartum underwear and postpartum diapers that will help support you in the days to weeks following birth.
What to look for in postpartum diapers and postpartum underwear:
In the early days and weeks following birth not only are you physically and emotionally vulnerable, but your body is trying to recover and heal from bringing your baby into the world. This can look different for everyone, but one thing everyone will experience is varying levels of bleeding and discharge and a sensitive uterus that is shrinking back down.
And yes, even moms of C-sections will experience bleeding and discharge. Because of this, it’s good to keep the below in mind when looking for postpartum underwear and postpartum diapers.
- Comfort: Postpartum can be a physically uncomfortable time with soreness, swelling, and discomfort in the perineal area or abdomen due to a C-section incision. Postpartum underwear is typically designed to be soft, stretchy, and breathable, providing comfort and support during the healing process. If you’ve had a cesarean birth you want to avoid anything that is too tight or anything that rubs your incision.
- Absorption: After giving birth, women often experience significant vaginal bleeding and discharge, known as lochia. This discharge can last for several weeks and is typically too heavy for regular menstrual pads. Postpartum diapers and specially designed postpartum underwear provide the necessary absorbency and containment for this discharge, ensuring comfort and hygiene.
- Convenience: Whether you’re in the early days of needing postpartum diapers and postpartum underwear, or a few weeks in, you’ll want to look for items that are easy to use and possibly dispose of. This convenience is particularly helpful during the first few weeks when new mothers are adjusting to their new roles and responsibilities. As you get comfortable, look for postpartum underwear that provides proper absorption and leak protection which is key and eco-friendly so you don’t need to continue to buy disposable diapers.
- Leak Protection: Leakage is a common concern during the postpartum period. Postpartum diapers and underwear are designed to minimize the risk of leaks, allowing women to move freely without the fear of staining their clothing or bedding.
Amazon Basics Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women
Whether you’re dealing with incontinence or postpartum bleeding, these are highly absorbent and comfortable. A mom of five, Karrie Locher RN, BSN CLC, recently gave birth and touted these postpartum diapers as her absolute favorite. The Dri-Fit technology helps to control moisture to keep your skin dry, comfortable, and healthy. There’s also a Dual Odor control system that effectively helps neutralize and stop odors to keep you feeling fresh throughout the day.
What we love:
- Great absorbency for incontinence and postpartum bleeding.
- Can be worn comfortably overnight.
- Wide padding provides extra protection.
What we would change:
- The band comes up high, which could be exposed if your pants aren’t high enough.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-2XL
- Count: 24 per pack
Buy now on Amazon; $16
Frida Mom Postpartum Boyshort
This eight-pack of super stretchy and super soft underwear is designed to keep pads and all other recovery layers in place without compromising comfort. Available in two sizes (regular and petite) these postpartum underwear are thicker than the ones that you’re going to get in the hospital which is nice because they won’t fall down. The boyshort design helps provide extra coverage and prevents them from riding up.
Layering postpartum underwear with padsicles is a great way to heal during recovery, especially if you’ve had stitches, says Alvarez-Borland. “I recommend the layering of padsicles with postpartum underwear in the early days for any of my vaginal deliveries. The combination helps to provide relief and comfort in the early days when you’re changing your pads and padsicles every few hours.”
What we love:
- Boyshort design prevents underwear from riding up.
- They don’t stretch out and become too loose.
- Soft material provides added comfort.
What we would change:
- Can add up quickly if you need multiple packs
Quick Facts:
- Size: Regular and Petite
- Count: Eight per pack
Buy now on Amazon; $14
Disposable Mesh Postpartum Underwear
Similar to the mesh underwear that most women receive in the hospital, these high-waist postpartum underwear are great for postpartum recovery both for natural and cesarean-type births. They’re soft and seamless which means they won’t rub against your incision. Designed to hold maternity pads in place, you can confidently move through your day without worrying about leaks.
I ordered these after a close friend who gave birth a few months before me recommended them. “Similar to the hospital underwear (which you should take as many as you can) these are super soft and stretchy and great for holding pads and other dressings you may need. They also come up over your stomach which is nice so they don’t fall down,” says Sarah, mom of one.
What we love:
- Boyshort design prevents underwear from riding up.
- The mesh design is soft against a C-section incision.
- Flexible to accommodate postpartum pads and padsicles.
What we would change:
- The mesh is very soft and can stretch out after a few hours.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 3XL
- Count: 15 per pack
Buy now on Amazon; $25
THINX Hi-Waist Period Underwear
Getting back to feeling “normal” is going to take some time, but each day and small milestones (like wearing real underwear vs. postpartum underwear or diapers) is going to make you feel a little bit closer to your pre-baby self. These period underwear have built-in leak protection and a moisture-resistant barrier to absorb blood (up to four tampons worth) and discharge without feeling bulky or spilling over. This means no more pads. Small win.
After a few weeks, I was sick of wearing diapers and pads and felt 10x better putting these on. I still needed protection but I loved how I didn’t need any additional pads or support. They also have sheer paneling on the sides which gave me a confidence boost. Felt a little sexy for a minute.
What we love:
- You don’t need to constantly change your pad.
- Less bulk in your underwear with the elimination of additional pads.
- High waist and light compression add support for your midsection.
What we would change:
- Not seamless on the butt or legs.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS – 4X
- Count: One
- Colors: Black; available in three colors.
- How to Wash: Hand wash or machine wash cold on a delicate cycle. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Hang dry — no ironing, please!
Buy now on Amazon; $35
Kindred Bravely Postpartum C-Section Underwear
Feeling cute after birth is probably the last thing on your mind, but wearing some feminine postpartum underwear might help you feel a little bit more confident. Designed for the ultimate comfort, the smoothing and stylish design sits above your C-section line and covers your post-baby belly without digging into your skin. The bottom area of these postpartum underwear is wider and larger than typical underwear which allows room for a pad and recovery dressings.
What we love:
- The lace detail adds a touch of style to postpartum recovery.
- The full bottom provides ample coverage and support for recovery dressing and pads.
- The soft material is comforting against C-Section incision.
What we would change:
- In the early days, the leg holes can feel uncomfortable.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 1X
- Count: 5 per pack
- Colors: Black; available in two color packages.
Buy now on Amazon; $36
Bodily The All-In Panty
The perfect high-waisted underwear to ensure your comfort and support during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Crafted from buttery-soft, highly stretchable micromodal fabric, they offer a velvety feel against your skin and a high waist that is especially beneficial after a C-section.
Created to be the ultimate choice for a body transitioning from pregnancy to post-birth recovery and beyond, these are a great option to buy and wear before birth and after.
I bought these when I was pregnant because I thought I was going to have a C-section. I ended up having a vaginal delivery but still wore these during my last weeks of pregnancy and a couple of weeks following birth because they were so comfortable and fit the necessary pads and recovery items that I needed.
What we love:
- A wide gusset allows for ample room for recovery pads and dressing.
- Can be worn through multiple stages of pregnancy and birth recovery.
- The buttery soft material feels great against your skin.
What we would change:
- A cheeky cut can allow postpartum underwear to ride up.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 3X
- Count: Single, 3-Pack and 5-Pack available
- Colors: Multiple colors available.
Buy now on Amazon; $58
Ellen Tracey Full Brief
Super stretchy and soft on your skin, this is a great postpartum underwear option that will fit you throughout your postpartum journey. They even come up high enough to not irritate C-section incisions. The breathable, soft and seamless fabric completely vanished under clothing, giving you a smooth and confident look.
What we love:
- Super stretch provides great comfort with weight and size fluctuations.
- Does not ride up.
- Wide range of colors and sizes available.
What we would change:
- Thin fabric doesn’t hold large pads well; recommended for lighter discharge days.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 3X
- Count: Four
- Colors: Available in 17 color packs
Buy now on Amazon; $24.99
Always Discreet Adult Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women
A great option for overnight and during the day, these are a great postpartum diaper option for the days that you don’t need or want to use a pad. They’re thin, but absorbent, which means you can feel confident in protection against leaks without feeling like you’re wearing anything too bulky.
Alvarez-Borland recommends these to her clients, particularly for overnight use. “I always tell my clients to wear diapers overnight. You can layer in padsicles if you need additional support, but the diapers offer the strongest protection.”
What we love:
- LeakGuard technology helps prevent leaks during the day and overnight.
- The flexible band provides comfort and support around your belly.
- Offers room for padsicles if you’re recovering from stitches.
What we would change:
- The butt is quite bulky, so it’s recommended to wear it with baggier bottoms.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-XL
- Count: 17 per pack
- Colors: One color
Buy now on Amazon; $14
Diva Reusable Period Underwear
This reusable underwear brings you all-day leak protection (up to 9 tampons worth of absorption) with an ultra-thin gusset that stays invisible under your clothing. These are a great postpartum underwear option for a couple of weeks post-birth when your discharge has started to lighten. They provide ample protection while staying sleek and comfortable beneath your wardrobe.
What we love:
- Ultra-thin comfort allows you to wear under tight-fitting clothing.
- A wide range of sizes is designed to fit a range of bodies.
- No pad is necessary.
What we would change:
- Would prefer a higher waistband.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-4XL
- Count: One
- Colors: Black
- How to wash: After wearing, it’s suggested to immediately rinse with cold water, squeezing gently, until the water runs clear. Machine wash in cold or warm water at a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius/86 degrees Fahrenheit. Use mild detergent and a delicate setting. Hang to dry. Do not bleach, iron, dry clean, or tumble dry.
Buy now on Amazon; $33.99
One Last Thing: FAQ
Should I wear postpartum diapers or postpartum underwear?
Duncan recommends wearing diapers for the first week as they are more protective, effective, and comfortable, in her opinion. “Most hospitals will give you mesh-like underwear that are stretchy and can easily accommodate a large, overnight sanitary napkin which is also a good option when you’re in the hospital and not moving around much.” but once you get home and depending on your activity level diapers might be easier. “If you have other children at home and cannot rest as much as you’d like, diapers can be more flexible for your lifestyle,” she says.
Alvarez-Bourland explains that ultimately, the choice between postpartum underwear and diapers comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and individual needs. “Some women prefer the sustainability and adjustability of reusable underwear, while others appreciate the convenience and disposability of postpartum diapers,” she says. “Regardless of your choice, make sure the product you select provides the necessary absorbency, comfort, and protection for a smoother postpartum recovery.”
Is there a difference in what you wear whether you’ve had a c-section or vaginal delivery?
No, not really. You still have a decent amount of blood even after a C-section as every woman’s body will produce Lochia that will discharge over the course of up to six weeks, explains Duncan. The main difference between a C-section and vaginal birth is that for a vaginal birth, you’ll want something that can accommodate pads and possibly padsicles if you’ve had stitches. For a C-section, you’ll want soft, high-waisted underwear that won’t irritate your incision.
While everyone will experience lochia, the degree to which you need support will vary. “The need for postpartum underwear varies from woman to woman, depending on the birth experience,” Alvarez-Borland explains. “If you’ve had a cesarean birth you want to make sure that you’re wearing comfortable postpartum underwear or postpartum diapers that don’t rub or add pressure to your incision,” she explains. If you’ve had a vaginal birth you’ll want postpartum diapers and postpartum underwear that can accommodate additional healing aids, like ice packs.”
