If you are a mother who is expecting a baby, or if you already have a little one, this article will be very important for you. We plan a lot about baby clothes, diapers, and bottles. But it is also important to think about your well-being as a mother after giving birth. Postpartum pads are an essential part of that. After having a baby, whether it is a vaginal delivery or a Cesarean Section , a blood-like fluid will come out of the vagina for about six weeks. So during this time, these pads will help you stay comfortable and safe while taking care of the baby.
What are these postpartum pads?
Simply put, this is a specially designed type of sanitary napkin used for heavy bleeding after childbirth.
The bleeding after childbirth, especially within the first ten days, is much heavier than a normal monthly period. So these special pads are designed to absorb this excess fluid and provide you with maximum comfort.
Compared to the sanitary napkins we usually use, these are a little thicker and have more liquid absorption . Also, they are longer and wider on the back. Most of the time, they have `wings` on both sides, so they stay in place without moving around.
Many postpartum pads are made of a very soft, cotton-like material. This softness is very important, because if you have stitches from childbirth, if you have pain in the vaginal area, or if you have swelling, this softness will bring you great relief.
In addition to being highly absorbent, they are also much safer than using vaginal inserts like tampons or menstrual cups. After giving birth, the vagina and surrounding area may be sore and sore. If you use an insert at a time like this, you are at a much higher risk of getting infections .
The most important thing is to not use tampons or menstrual cups for at least 6 weeks after giving birth. Always use an external pad.
Let's learn about postpartum bleeding (Lochia)
Regardless of how you delivered your baby, it's normal to have some vaginal bleeding after giving birth. This discharge, which contains pieces of the lining of the uterus, mucus, and blood, is medically called lochia .
At first, it may be very dark red and heavy. But over time, the discharge will gradually decrease, turning dark brown, then pink or white. This may feel like a normal period, but it will last longer. It usually stops completely after four to six weeks.
In addition to this bleeding, you may experience other physical changes. If you are breastfeeding, you may experience cramps in your lower abdomen, similar to those you experience during menstruation, as your uterus contracts again. This is a good sign, as it means your uterus is returning to normal.
When should I see a doctor?
Although heavy bleeding after childbirth is normal, there are some symptoms that you should be very concerned about. These could be signs of an infection or other serious condition.
| Symptom | What to pay attention to |
|---|---|
| Fever | If the body temperature is higher than 100.4 Fahrenheit (38 Celsius). |
| Increased bleeding | If the bleeding that was gradually decreasing suddenly increases. |
| Severe stomach pain | Unbearable, severe lower abdominal pain. |
| Passing large blood clots | If large (approximately larger than a 5 rupee coin) blood clots are passed frequently. |
| A foul-smelling discharge | If the vaginal discharge has an unusual, foul odor. |
| Other features | Vomiting, increased body swelling, breast redness, pain, and a feeling of warmth. |
| Emergency Signs | |
Very rarely, some people may experience excessive bleeding after giving birth ( Postpartum Hemorrhage ). This is an emergency. If you have the following symptoms, go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
| |
If you have any of these symptoms, please talk to your doctor . Be sure to inform him/her about it.
How to choose a good postpartum pad?
If you want to feel comfortable and safe after having a baby, the pad you choose should be good. Consider these points.
- Softness: The pad should be soft against the skin. The vaginal area is very sensitive after childbirth. If there are stitches, a rough pad is more likely to cause skin irritation and chafing.
- Good Breathability: Choose a pad that allows good air circulation to the vaginal area. Keeping the area dry can help prevent infections and help wounds heal faster.
- Absorbency: Since bleeding is heavy during the first few days, it is essential to have a pad that is highly absorbent. But no matter how absorbent it is, don't forget to change it every few hours.
- Flexibility: You'll be sitting, standing, and walking while caring for your baby. You want a pad that is flexible and can mold to your body in all of these positions.
- Supportiveness: The pad should be snug and not move around. To be leak-proof, whether you're sleeping or moving around, choose a pad that is longer and wider and fits well.
In addition to this, the underwear you wear is also important. If you wear wide, high-waisted underwear that allows the pad to fit properly, you will feel more comfortable because the pad will be well-fitted.
Take-Home Message
- It is completely normal to have a blood-like discharge (lochia) for 4-6 weeks after giving birth.
- During this time, use only specially designed, highly absorbent postpartum pads instead of tampons to prevent infections.
- If you have any warning signs, such as fever, severe pain, foul-smelling discharge, or sudden increase in bleeding, notify your doctor immediately.
- If you have severe bleeding along with dizziness , fainting, or lightheadedness, it is an emergency. Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Your comfort and convenience are essential for a speedy recovery, so it's important to choose a pad that's soft, comfortable, and fits well.
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