Postpartum bleeding, known as lochia, is a normal physiological process after childbirth. This discharge expels excess blood, tissue, and mucus from the uterus. Managing lochia requires absorbent pads designed for this unique flow.
Understanding Postpartum Bleeding
Lochia is a vaginal discharge of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue that begins immediately after delivery. This process is essential for the uterus to heal and return to its pre-pregnancy size. Lochia changes over time, progressing through distinct stages.
Initially, for the first three to four days, the discharge is called lochia rubra. It is bright or dark red, resembling a heavy menstrual period, and may contain small blood clots. Lochia serosa appears from day four through day 12, thinner and pinkish-brown with a moderate flow. The final stage, lochia alba, starts around day 12 and can last up to six weeks, becoming yellowish-white with a light flow.
Types of Postpartum Pads
Postpartum pads are designed to manage lochia, differing from regular menstrual pads. They are thicker, wider, and more absorbent for the heavier flow after childbirth. These pads are also made with softer materials to prevent irritation to sensitive postpartum tissues, especially if stitches are present.
Various absorbent products cater to different stages and preferences. Disposable maternity pads are widely available in various absorbency levels. For initial heavy bleeding, extra-long and super-absorbent pads are available, some with wings. Some brands offer specialized “overnight” pads that are larger for extended wear.
Reusable cloth pads are a softer, breathable option for sensitive skin. Disposable underwear, also known as postpartum diapers, provides 360-degree coverage for the heaviest bleeding. These are often seamless and rest comfortably over the postpartum belly, reducing pressure on C-section incisions. Mesh underwear, often provided in hospitals, pairs with pads, offering breathability and comfort for healing perineal areas.
Estimating Your Pad Needs
The quantity of pads needed postpartum varies for each individual, influenced by bleeding amount and lochia duration. In the immediate postpartum period, the first three to four days, bleeding is heaviest, resembling a heavy menstrual period. This heavy flow might necessitate using several large, thick pads or disposable underwear per day.
For the first week, individuals might use 6 to 10 heavy-absorbency pads daily. As the flow lessens, usually around day 5 to 10, the need for pads might decrease to 3 to 4 pads per day. By the second week, many can transition to smaller, regular maxi pads. Around the fourth week, or when lochia becomes light and yellowish-white, panty liners may suffice.
For the initial heavy flow, two to three packs of 10-12 large maternity pads (20-36 total) are a practical starting point. Some estimates suggest needing around 30-40 pads for the initial postpartum period. Overall, approximately 150 pads of varying absorbencies for the entire six-week period is a safe estimate. While bleeding occurs regardless of birth type, C-section deliveries may result in slightly less lochia compared to vaginal births.
Tips for Postpartum Pad Use
Changing sanitary pads regularly is important for comfort and hygiene, preventing irritation and reducing infection risk. During the heaviest bleeding phases, change pads every one to two hours, or at least every three to four hours. As the flow decreases, changing every four to six hours may be sufficient.
Maintaining perineal hygiene is important. After using the toilet or changing a pad, clean the perineal area from front to back with warm water from a squirt bottle. Gently pat the area dry with clean toilet paper or wipes. Soaking in a clean bath can also aid in cleaning and healing, especially after a vaginal delivery.
Use only sanitary pads during the postpartum period. Avoid tampons or menstrual cups for at least six weeks, or until cleared by a healthcare provider, to prevent bacteria introduction and potential infection to the healing uterus. Wearing comfortable, high-waisted underwear, or disposable mesh underwear, helps hold pads securely and accommodates any tenderness or stitches.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While lochia is a normal part of postpartum recovery, certain bleeding signs warrant immediate medical attention. Excessive bleeding is a primary concern. This includes soaking through one or more sanitary pads in an hour, or passing blood clots larger than a golf ball or plum. If heavy bleeding continues beyond the first few days, or suddenly becomes heavier after slowing down, it should be evaluated.
Other indicators of potential complications include a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, signaling an infection. Fever or chills, severe abdominal pain, or increasing pain around the vaginal area are also reasons to contact a healthcare provider. Dizziness, feeling faint, blurred vision, or a rapid heart rate can be signs of significant blood loss or other serious conditions requiring prompt assessment.