It’s time to talk about the “secret” underwear that only new moms know exists in the world. The best postpartum underwear is what women need the most once the baby is born. So before you get back to your normal days, consider these underwear styles. They support the bleeding and/or discharge that follows and continues for a few days after childbirth.
As if the pregnancy was not already the toughest time of your life, you now have to go through this process too. For some women, it’s no big deal since it’s a part of the deal. But then there are those who have to make extra efforts to manage this kind of post-pregnancy concerns.
And, at such times, regular undies just makes matters even worse. So how about you ditch those and put on the following I’ve reviewed for you below. You may have a lot of things to deal with after your baby is born. So let’s not include underwear discomfort or worries too!
Best Postpartum Underwear – Table Comparison and Top 10 Reviews
| PRODUCT NAME | RATING | TYPE | MATERIAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUNFAN Washable Mesh Pants Postpartum Underwear | #10 | Maternity underwear | Polyester |
| HASOCARE Diposable Moisture Wicking Briefs | #9 | Disposable briefs | All-over elastic with a cotton-like feel |
| UpSpring Baby C-Panty C-Section Support Slimming High-Waist Panty | #8 | Slimming high-waist panties | Nylon, spandex |
| Seamless Mesh Knit Postpartum Maternity Underwear | #7 | Disposable maternity panties | Polyester, spandex |
| Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear | #6 | High-waist maternity panties | Rayon, spandex |
| Wirarpa Women’s High Waisted Cotton Underwear | #5 | High-waist briefs | Cotton, spandex |
| Hanes Women’s Microfiber Brief Multipack | #4 | Briefs | Nylon, spandex |
| INNERSY Womens High Waisted Underwear Cotton Panties | #3 | High-waist panties | Cotton, spandex |
| Intimate Portal Women Under the Bump Maternity Panties | #2 | Maternity bikini panties | Cotton, spandex |
| Fruit of the Loom Women’s Underwear Breathable Panties | #1 | Seamless panties | Cotton, polyester, spandex |
10. JUNFAN Washable Mesh Pants Postpartum Underwear - Best washable postpartum underwear
Surgery recovery necessities 101 - the best postpartum underwear. Such as this washable mesh panty that so many women have praised time and again. For all you know, the hospital itself might provide you with these. But then you have to buy brand new ones on your own at some point. But why? Simply because these undies are breathable, stretchy, and light enough.
They’re washable and reusable as long as you wash them gently. At the same time, the undies are perfect for pregnancy, postpartum, incontinence, and the like.
Expect no irritation of any kind because they’re made of mesh. And they rest high enough on the waist to keep from rubbing against your incision. It’s highly recommended by women for women going back home with a baby!
Pros
- Breathable, lightweight, reusable mesh underwear
- High-waist and stretchy for pain-free comfort
- Frictionless, no-pressure design
- Made for pregnancy, postpartum, incontinence, etc.
Cons
Not large enough for plus-size women
9. HASOCARE Disposable Moisture Wicking Briefs - Best affordable disposable postpartum underwear
These are the best one-time wear disposable briefs that many women put on right after their surgery at the hospital. Some even wear them during their regular menstrual cycle.
The thing that makes them so popular is the incredibly soft cotton-like feel. Another thing is the Microfin Dry technology. It wicks away moisture perfectly well to keep you dry, cool, and fresh down there.
Moreover, the briefs have a seamless design, meaning no visible panty lines. And these are so affordable that you don’t even feel bad for throwing them after one use.
More importantly, the undies are perfect to wear during C-section recovery. Well-supported, compatible with sanitary pads, and more resistant and thicker in terms of quality. Just what a new mom needs!
Pros
- Soft cotton-like feel and breathability
- Seamless design, so no visible panty lines
- Microfin Dry technology wicks away moisture and sweat
- All-over elastic for a snug, comfortable fit
Cons
Sizing is a bit off with smaller leg holes
8. UpSpring Baby C-Panty C-Section Support Slimming High-Waist Panty - Best compression underwear
Let me start by talking about all the wonderful benefits of these slimming high-waist panties by UpSpring. These are compression undies that feel the most comfortable after childbirth. Your postpartum belly is sure to thank you for them. They support as well as protect the sensitive incision area.
The underwear is outfitted with 100-percent silicone paneling. It’s what keeps away troubles like redness, burning, itching, and even scarring of the C-section incision. On top of that, the high-rise waist does the job of smoothing out your bumps and bulges. It starts from the bra line and goes all the way down to the hips.
Look forward to increased mobility and comfort in this postpartum shapewear/underwear here. And you can machine-wash it without a concern in the world.
Now I’m not saying that the underwear is going to make your postpartum pain and discomfort go away. But it certainly makes the process much easier. Because at least you don’t have to worry about your panties, even if you’re a plus-sized mommy now.
Pros
- Medical-grade, high-waist compression underwear
- High-waist design for body smoothing and shaping
- Silicone panel for C-section incision care
Cons
Have to pull all the way for restroom visits
7. Seamless Mesh Knit Postpartum Maternity Underwear - Best high-quality disposable postpartum underwear
These are super-stretchy, so they can move with you. These are high-waisted, so they don’t cause any discomfort or pain in the incision area of the C-section. And these are brief-style, so they provide full coverage. The perfect disposable pack of undies for the post-surgery stage after childbirth.
Seamless Mesh Knit Postpartum Maternity Underwear is nothing like regular underwear that really hurts after C-section. And if you think they don’t last long, then you’re wrong. These panties can be worn even after a few hand-washes.
What’s the best part about them is that they offer a generous amount of stretch. And this is great during pregnancy, including the third trimester. Just the simple fact that these undies are black says a lot about how much thought has been put into the design.
Pros
- Brief-style underwear provides full coverage
- Breathable, light, and stretchy mesh
- Perfect for keeping even large pads in place
- High-waisted to keep pressure off C-section incision
Cons
- Since they’re disposable, don’t expect too much wear
6. Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear - Best for C-section recovery
Low-cut undies are the worst for C-section recovery, aren’t they? In that case, how about buying panties specifically designed to heal? These are Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear. The high-waist design is what sets them apart from boring granny panties.
Super-stretchy and super-soft fabric blend include rayon and spandex. Also, let me assure you that this isn’t anything like cheap underwear that has open seams installed on the additional piece of crotch fabric. There aren’t any such open seams here, which means sanitary pads cannot harm the underwear.
But what matters the most is that the panties save you from C-section incision discomfort and pain. It’s important to keep the incision from getting inflamed. And the best way to go about is to get high-waist maternity panties like these.
The set is a good choice even for large women. And if you fall into that category, then consider ordering a size up for a snug fit and a size down for a loose yet not saggy fit.
Pros
- Smoothing maternity panties for C-section recovery
- Designed to hold maternity pads
- Full-coverage, wide, ultra-soft waistband
Cons
- Not stretchy enough
5. Wirarpa Women’s High Waisted Cotton Underwear - Best postpartum underwear to reduce muffin top
Finding underwear that doesn’t ride up the buttocks is like finding a needle in a haystack. At the same time, you want a little bit of tummy control. This is especially important during the postpartum recovery time when you’re trying to find ways to hide the muffin top. On that note, wearing such high-waist cotton panties can really make a huge difference.
Even though these undies go high up, they don’t bother at all. Women wear them during and after pregnancy to cover the bulge. Just make sure you pick the right size before buying if you want the most comfortable fit.
But, no matter what size you pick, the butt coverage is full. And so is the tummy bulge coverage. Even the double-layered, stretchy waistband is all about comfort. As it doesn’t bunch or roll, meaning your muffin top doesn’t get pushed through clothing.
As for postpartum bleeding/discharge, there’s a breathable, wide crotch that has you covered. So you don’t necessarily need to wear granny panties. These seem like a better alternative for sure.
Pros
- Full-coverage, high-rise postpartum panties
- Breathable, sweat-wicking, double-layered crotch
- Stay-put, bind-proof design
- Sits at the waist to cover the belly button
Cons
- Visible panty lines
4. Hanes Women’s Microfiber Brief Multipack - Best affordable postpartum underwear
Don’t think twice before purchasing these Hanes briefs for your postpartum stage. They’re super-soft, they’re perfectly sized and ideal for C-section recovery. The high waistband is what makes the recovery part possible. It places the undies high enough to allow the incision to heal. Without aggravating it or causing any other form of irritation!
But what’s the most enticing aspect, in this case, is the affordable price tag. That means the panties are inexpensive to buy. And then to keep replacing as and when needed. Plus, Hanes is a very trusted brand, so you don’t have to worry much about quality either.
The smooth construction and thin elastic make it seem like you’re not wearing any underwear at all. That’s how comfortable and even seamless the construction is. No panty lines pave the way for tighter dresses and pants you’ve been meaning to wear ever since pregnancy and delivery.
Furthermore, the full coverage of the underwear is a boon when it comes to making you feel safe during your time of the month. Speaking of which, the double-layered crotch provides more protection just in case. And just so you know, the full coverage extends to women with larger hips and buttocks too. So it’s a great option even if you’re plus size.
Pros
- Smooth stretch briefs for postpartum
- Double-lined cotton liner for extra protection
- The micro dry fabric keeps you dry and cool
- Tagless, seamless, and full-coverage
Cons
- Tad too thin and easy to fall apart
3. INNERSY Womens High Waisted Underwear Cotton Panties - Best postpartum high-waist cotton underwear
Cotton is a material much preferred for underwear. And even more so when these are postpartum undies. The INNERSY High Waisted Panties are made of super-soft cotton. That is also stretchy because of the inclusion of spandex in the blend.
The underwear offers a little bit of tummy control, which makes it a suitable choice for the post-pregnancy belly. Don’t expect it to fit and function like shapewear though. Rather look forward to the panties smoothing lines and slimming down a little bit of tummy bulge. In short, they don’t work like shapewear, but these do indeed give your stomach a flattering shape.
What I also liked is that these are the most comfortable briefs. Even in the case of a C-section scar that requires healing and extra care. You can wear such high-waist panties until your abdomen region gets back to normal for regular underwear.
Pros
- Tummy control high-waist panties
- Complete backside coverage with stretchy leg bands
- Double-layered waistband prevents muffin top
- Breathable and soft cotton used for construction
Cons
- Prone to shrinking after wash
2. Intimate Portal Women Under the Bump Maternity Panties - Best postpartum bikini underwear
Just the idea of wearing bikini underwear without any pressure anywhere in or around your sensitive areas post-childbirth seems like the most comfortable thing to do. If you can relate, then it’s time to fix your eyes on Intimate Portal Women Under the Bump Maternity Panties.
These low-rise undies keep from irritating your C-section scar. Thus, making the postpartum phase of your life easier i.e. speeding recovery. What I found to be the most comforting to know is that the panties have a 100-percent cotton lining in the crotch area. And this takes care of bladder leaks usually spawned during and even after pregnancy.
So the heavier crotch lining offers better absorption and keeps everything breathable and dry down there. Moreover, the flattering shape it creates in your belly region many new moms desire during that time. And this shape is produced without adding any pressure around your sensitive abdomen.
Incredibly low at the front and full-coverage at the back. Plus, the panties are well-stitched and smooth to ensure superior quality. In comparison to conventional cotton panties, these are more suited for postpartum recovery. Simply because they’re beyond comfortable without adding pressure to the bump.
Pros
- Low-cut maternity cotton panty
- Soft, stretchy cotton
- Low-rise waistband keeps away from C-section incision
- Cotton crotch inner lining is lightly colored to spot unusual discharge
Cons
- Panty lines are well defined through clothing
1. Fruit of the Loom Women’s Underwear Breathable Panties - Top Choice
The final pick, which is actually the topmost choice on the list, is none other than a pack of seamless, breathable panties. That is manufactured by none other than Fruit of the Loom. Let me tell you that these don’t look like the most stylish or elegant ones out there. But don’t judge a book by its cover. The panties are unbeatable in terms of comfort.
The underwear is super-breathable and super-comfy. You don’t even feel itchy or hot in them. More importantly, the waistband fits around a postpartum belly perfectly well. Just make sure you measure your hips and waist before buying. And don’t worry about the sizing chart, the standard measurements are 100-percent accurate.
The micro-mesh material and low-rise waistband keep you fresh and cool throughout the day. The former, in particular, encourages airflow while also keeping you completely covered. Then there’s the smooth waistband and soft leg bands that invite tons of extra comfort into the experience.
Women recovering from C-section have also praised this underwear. As it doesn’t cause any trouble to the incision region. So if you’re fed up with wearing postpartum diapers, then don’t hesitate to introduce these soft, lightweight, high-waist panties into your life.
Pros
- Comfortable, smooth waistband
- Breathable micro-mesh keeps you cool and dry
- 4-way flex stretch for a more customized, comfortable fit
- Seamless, tag-free, and lined with extra-soft cotton
Cons
- They’re breathable but don’t wick away moisture/sweat
Buying Guide of the Best Postpartum Underwear
The best postpartum underwear is more than just mesh panties. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. So you’re never running out of options when it comes to wearing breathable and comfortable underwear after pregnancy.
Wearing postpartum underwear is a wise decision for new moms. You want to feel relaxed and at ease down there. And the fit and style of regular underwear are not equipped at offering that to you just yet.
It doesn’t hurt to buy a few pairs of postpartum underwear for daily use. What does is skipping this step and experiencing pain and discomfort wearing regular panties.
But before you go ahead and click on the “Buy Now” button. Look at the best features of postpartum underwear.
Types of Postpartum Underwear
Disposal Underwear
This is, by far, the easiest and quickest underwear to use. Disposable briefs are mess-free because you don’t have to wash them. Just wear them once and throw them in the bin once you’re done.
Women who have just entered the post-partum phase wear disposable underwear. Even hospitals provide new mothers with disposable underwear to take home after delivery. They are safe, comfortable, and effective to use.
Period Panties
Period panties are nothing like regular panties. They are made up of thicker materials of cotton and nylon. Like disposable underwear, they are meant for women to wear during their initial postpartum period.
The thickness of the fabric is good because it absorbs blood and other fluids. You can pair them with post-partum pads for a better fit and feel.
Compression Underwear
Compression underwear is lightweight but shaping. Materials like microfiber, cotton, and nylon offer better breathability and contouring. The fabric sits on your skin without pressing into the stomach, hips, or waist.
And more importantly, if you have surgical marks, it cushions the area. So you feel light, dry, and cool inside. Some compression underwear comes with silicone panels that soothe scars. The compression will give you a slightly flat tummy feeling. And since they are high waist, your tummy looks better shaped and sleek under clothing.
Such underwear is great for tucking your belly in. Slimming, sweat-proof, and comfortable. Compression underwear is essential for many things.
Why Do I Need Postpartum Underwear?
You can only wear postpartum underwear after giving birth. This includes after having either a C-section or a natural way of delivery.
During the postpartum period, new moms go through various bodily changes. This includes bleeding, vaginal discomfort, abdominal stitches, and bloating or puffiness, etc.
Underwear that is too tight or not supportive enough can worsen your postpartum discomfort. So regardless of the type of delivery you’ve had, wearing postpartum underwear is very important.
It can protect your vagina from infection, sweating, and chafing. If you have stitches, the proper underwear, like a compression panty, will keep them protected. If you’re experiencing extra vaginal bleeding, disposable underwear will stop stains.
As you can see, there are many kinds of postpartum underwear for new moms.
What’s the Best Postpartum Underwear Material?
Microfiber is the best material there is for postpartum underwear. It is stronger than mesh or cotton. And it’s highly absorbent.
Spandex underwear is generally worn as compression underwear. It shapes the area it covers. But it’s not as breathable as cotton, mesh, or microfiber.
Cotton, on the other hand, is a common material. It is known for its comfortable texture and smoothness. But in terms of absorbency, it’s the second-best choice.
A blend of spandex, microfiber, and cotton can be an excellent choice. The absorbency of microfiber, the softness of cotton, and the compression of spandex. It can protect the skin from sweating stains while keeping it cool and dry.
Look for a material that wicks away moisture. Lots of new underwear have silicone panels that boost scar recovery. For C-section patients, it allows the bandages to stay in one place. So the material of the underwear doesn’t rub against the skin. And interfere with the bandage that is protecting your scar.
More importantly, during the postpartum phase, your body is undergoing many hormonal changes. So you’re more likely to perspire. Even if you’re not doing anything physically exhilarating.
A fabric like microfiber gives you a comfortable feeling. It’s dry, cooling, and breathable. The fabric feels soft against the skin which also prevents rashes and chafing. That suffocating feeling of the fabric is avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What not to do during postpartum?
Self-care is really important during the postpartum phase. This stage of motherhood is very vulnerable - for new moms and their babies. And one thing that makes it easier is taking care of yourself.
This means making sure you’re wearing the right postpartum underwear at home. And doing everything you can to heal any scars or swelling. For C-section, you will need to apply a specific ointment on the scars to boost recovery.
Postpartum underwear with silicone panels can alleviate discomfort. It can protect your stitches from opening. And keep the skin in that area dry and sweat-free.
If you’ve had a natural vaginal birth, taking a hot water bath with Epsom salt is necessary. It promotes healing and keeps everything down there clean and infection-free.
Postpartum underwear with microfiber and cotton materials should help. By keeping the area protected, dry, and comfortable. You can avoid sweating, chafing, and rashes. You can also buy disposable postpartum underwear in case you need to apply frozen pads to your panty.
Doctor-approved frozen pads boost skin recovery, reduce soreness, and heal rashes quicker.
Do not avoid these steps to make sure you’re comfortable and stress-free. If you’re feeling discomfort, irritation, or sweating, make sure you do not allow things to get worse. Consult with your most-trusted doctor and take the right precautions to avoid heavy bleeding or things getting out of hand.
Q2. Why do I need to wear disposable underwear after childbirth?
If anything, the reviews section is proof that there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to disposable maternity underwear. And it’s important to wear because the undies keep postpartum pads in place.
After giving birth, it’s only natural for women to bleed. And these pads are the best during this time. Wearing regular underwear is a horrible idea, no doubt. Because it not only feels uncomfortable but also doesn’t accommodate maternity pads.
Q3. How long to wear postpartum underwear?
It actually depends from one woman to another. But you should wear maternity undies until you stop bleeding and recover completely from childbirth. This, more often than not, takes more than 10 days and less than 6 weeks.
Q4. Is postpartum underwear comfortable to wear?
If you pick one from the reviews section above, then you don’t have to worry about comfort at all. Because these panties are made using extra-stretchy, extra-soft materials. The underwear is also specifically designed to fit over your post-pregnancy belly. Most of them have a high-rise waist to keep from interfering with the healing of a C-section incision.
You can, however, get away with regular underwear. But don’t expect it to be as comforting, stretchy, and accommodating as the postpartum kind.
Q5. How many pairs of postpartum underwear should I get?
Just to make sure you don’t run out of underwear, it’s best to have as many as you can get. The thing about disposable postpartum panties is that they are the most useful at the time of bleeding. The hospital itself provides you with enough right after the surgery. But you have to buy more once you get back home.
As for how many to buy, the underwear, more often than not, is available in twos, multi-packs, etc. Some are even washable and reusable. And you’ll be using at least 3 to 5 undies per day for as long as the postpartum bleeding lasts.
Q6. Is incontinence underwear suitable for postpartum?
Many women ditch using maternity pads altogether and instead buy the disposable-kind incontinence underwear. This is indeed a good idea for those with sensitive skin. So you don’t really have to expose your delicate skin to anything else that may or may not aggravate the condition.
Q7. Can you wash postpartum mesh underwear?
Now you already know that some postpartum undies can be washed to be re-used. And this type is certainly a more affordable and even an environment-friendly choice. So are these mesh panties? Yes, you can wash postpartum mesh underwear, but only hand-washing is allowed.
However, the idea of washing maternity underwear with your hands might seem like a gross idea to some. In that case, feel free to machine-wash the panties, but on a delicate cycle or low setting.
Q8. What underwear styles are the best for postpartum?
It goes without saying that certain underwear styles are going to do a better job of making you feel more secure and comfortable. One such great example is seamless underwear. Moms who have had to go through C-section surgery usually opt for seamless undies in the form of comfortable briefs. There’s just no downplaying the comfort provided by these.
Then there are cotton briefs as well that come with a leakproof lining in the crotch. They offer the most amount of protection during the postpartum bleeding phase. You can even wear a pad without feeling any discomfort or irritation.
Tummy control briefs are also widely popular. Made from a blend of spandex and nylon, for the most part, these classic briefs support your tummy region while also shaping it a little.
Summary
Once your baby is born, the struggle isn’t over yet. Many women have to deal with postpartum bleeding and discharge as well. And then there’s the C-section incision that needs to heal. Whatever the problem, you can figure it all out. And while doing so, make sure to put on maternity underwear because you don’t want any underwear troubles adding up to it.
The best of the lot is the Fruit of the Loom Women’s Underwear Breathable Panties. These have a smooth and comfortable waistband. And they feel extra-soft against your skin. Moreover, lots of women have praised them post-childbirth for holding even postpartum pads really well.
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