How many pads do I need for the postpartum flow?
How many sanitary pads should you have at home after giving birth?
The lochia after birth is about 5 times as heavy as a heavy period. That's why you need particularly good protection during this special time. Here you can find everything you need to know about postpartum pads.
Of the large postpartum pads: 3 boxes with 10 pieces each
- Especially important in the first five to seven days because they are (and have to be) super absorbent
- In the beginning you need about 4-6 pads daily
Of the smaller postpartum pads: 3 boxes with 16 pieces each
- The small bandages are used from about the second week
- Here too, you have a consumption of about 3-4 pads per day
So big
The placenta leaves a wound in your uterus that is about the size of your hand. Due to contractions after birth (afterpains), the uterus contracts quite a bit in order to stop the heavy bleeding from this large wound. The placental wound heals completely after four to six weeks of lochia.
What is the difference between large and small postpartum pads?
The large postpartum pads:
- Extra long and wide for maximum protection
- Particularly absorbent for the intensive bleeding of the first few days
- Ideal for the night and longer periods of lying down
- Give you the necessary security in the early days
The small postpartum pads:
- Narrower and shorter
- Sufficiently absorbent for lighter bleeding from week 2
- More comfortable to wear with more movement
- Can also hold urine well due to the bio-polymer coating
Do I need different amounts depending on whether I have a cesarean section or a natural birth?
There is hardly any difference in the amount of pads needed. The uterus shrinks in both cases. However, there are small differences:
- After a cesarean section, bleeding may initially be slightly lighter than after a natural birth
- The lochia usually lasts a similar length of time in both birth modes
- The recommended basic equipment is identical, also because the large postpartum pads can be used wonderfully across the scar to protect it from pressure and friction
Practical tips for your lochia
Before birth
- For maximum comfort, take a box of organic postpartum pads with you to the hospital
- At home, keep boxes of postpartum pads and sanitary napkins in different places, for example by the bed and in the bathroom
- Put together a small postpartum basket or trolley in which you have everything you need within easy reach
After birth:
- Change the pads regularly (as needed)
- It may be helpful to put a towel under you in bed or on the sofa in case some of the odor runs past your pad
- Choose the most comfortable underpants made of pleasant materials that hold the pads in place well
- Plan "airing breaks" in which you lie naked on a towel
Postpartum app
The weeks postpartum app is your resource for the postpartum period. With a tutorial on preparation, daily information after the birth, contraction and breastfeeding trackers and practical checklists, we support you through the first period after the birth.