Pads vs. sanitary napkins for lochia: what's the difference?
Every woman who gives birth has bleeding after giving birth - the so-called lochia. This is not only significantly heavier than menstrual bleeding, but also has completely different causes.
What is lochia?
The lochia is bleeding that occurs where the placenta is attached to your uterus. The placenta is an organ that was newly formed by your body during pregnancy to provide for your child. After birth, the placenta is expelled as the afterbirth. Where the placenta was attached to your uterus, a wound develops that is about the size of your hand. This initially bleeds heavily. The afterpains, i.e. contractions of the uterus, cause the wound to close quickly and then heal over the course of the postpartum period.
Why do I need special pads and sanitary napkins for lochia?
The lochia is much heavier than a normal period. In addition, regardless of whether it was a natural birth or a cesarean section, there is a large wound in your uterus that is susceptible to germs. Accordingly, two things are important: very absorbent pads and air circulation. The absorbent pads should be able to absorb at least 150 ml of fluid per pad - otherwise you really have to change them every two minutes. And they should be plastic-free so that air can circulate and germs have no chance of settling in your vulva or on the pad. This carries the risk of them rising up and causing an infection in your uterus.
Can I use normal sanitary pads for my lochia?
We strongly advise against this. Conventional menstrual pads have superabsorbents in their core. This is a plastic granulate that is also found in diapers. It can absorb a lot of liquid, but becomes hard when it is soaked. This is not only uncomfortable to wear, but also prevents air circulation and encourages the implantation of germs.
What is the difference between large pads and small sanitary pads for postpartum bleeding?
The large postpartum pads can absorb more liquid (up to 200 ml) and are completely plastic-free on the outside and inside, very soft and quite long and thick.
The smaller postpartum pads are narrower and thinner and can absorb up to 60 ml of fluid. They are also made of 100% cotton on the inside, which distinguishes them from conventional period pads. Period pads usually contain plastic granules that are absorbent but also become as hard as a board and prevent air circulation. The postpartum pads are coated with a bio-polymer on the back, making them suitable for mild incontinence and able to absorb smaller amounts of urine.
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.