Do Your Really Need Postpartum Underwear?
During postpartum recovery, there are plenty of helpful items, but one that often gets overlooked is postpartum underwear. While you could stick with your usual undies, many moms and experts suggest grabbing a few pairs designed to ease symptoms like bleeding (which can last up to six weeks), soreness, and swelling.
Why Do You Need Postpartum Underwear
Choosing the right postpartum underwear can truly make a difference in how new mama's feel during this time. It goes beyond just the style and cut of the underwear; there are specific features that can provide the real comfort and support. From stretchy and breathable fabrics and gentle elastic bands that won't dig into sensitive skin, to leakproof confidence. It is these small details that can make all the difference.
Postpartum underwear can boost confidence and self-esteem. As the body undergoes significant changes through recovery, it's natural for women to feel self-conscious. Having underwear that fits well and provides the necessary support and protection makes this journey a little easier.
Remember, every woman's preferences can vary, prioritise the features that truly make a difference during this beautiful and transformative phase of life.
A few changes you can expect after birth include:
- Weight gain and/or changes in body shape
- Sensitivity and stretching of the skin around the stomach area
- Back and pelvic pain
Maternity and postpartum underwear are designed to accommodate these changes and provide support where needed. They are also crafted with soft, stretchy materials that won't cause any discomfort or irritation to sensitive areas.
Different Types of Postpartum Underwear
- Comfortably Supportive Fabrics: During pregnancy and postpartum, it's important to choose underwear made from fabrics that are stretchy, breathable, and soft on the skin. Cotton is a popular choice as it is hypoallergenic and allows for air circulation, reducing the risk of infections. Modal and bamboo are also great choices as they are known for their softness and moisture-wicking properties. Avoid synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester as they can trap moisture and cause discomfort.
- Underwear Styles: Every woman's body is different, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. It's important to choose underwear styles that suit your body type and provide the right amount of coverage and support.
- C-Section Appropriate: Higher waist band brief will ensure no pressure or rubbing on a Caesarean Section Scar. My Necessary Briefs are perfect for this.
- Additional Features to Look For: Besides fabric and style, other features can enhance the comfort and support of maternity and postpartum underwear. Look for options with:
- Seamless construction: This reduces the risk of chafing or irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Stretch: As your body changes during pregnancy and postpartum, this can ensure a comfortable fit.
- Moisture-wicking properties: Helps keep you feeling dry and comfortable, even during hot flashes or postpartum sweating.
- Leakproof: extra protection leakproof postpartum underwear, super helpful with postpartum bleeding and/or bladder leaking.
Maternity & Postpartum Underwear at Hotmilk
High-Waisted Pregnancy Briefs
One of the most recommended types of underwear for expectant and postpartum moms is the high-waisted brief. This style of underwear offers not only ample coverage and support, but also provides a comfortable and secure fit by extending below the belly button. High-waisted briefs are specifically designed to alleviate the discomfort of pressure on baby bumps and incision sites, making them ideal for moms who have undergone C-section deliveries. By providing an added layer of protection, these briefs can effectively assist in relieving pregnancy-related back pain and offer excellent support to the entire belly region, which is situated below the rib cage. With their combination of coverage, support, and comfort, high-waisted briefs are the perfect choice for moms seeking ultimate comfort and well-being during and after pregnancy.
Under-the-Bump Maternity Briefs
Under the bump, you will find that many women prefer wearing underwear designed specifically for their changing bodies during pregnancy. These briefs offer minimal coverage on the belly, allowing for maximum comfort. With a lower and elastic waistband that sits comfortably on the hips, these briefs not only provide support but also showcase the beautiful baby bump in maternity shoots. You'll be pleased to know that some of our under the bump styles have been a part of the Hotmilk range for over 10 years, guaranteeing exceptional comfort during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Rest assured that every detail, from fabric selection to seam placement and cut, has been carefully considered to ensure that these briefs are among the most comfortable you will ever wear.
Seamless Maternity Briefs
For moms seeking unparalleled comfort during pregnancy and postpartum, seamless maternity underwear are an excellent choice. These briefs are specially designed with no seams or edges, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin. Not only do they provide a smooth silhouette under clothing, but they also minimize the risk of chafing and irritation.
The My Necessity Bikini Brief features a low-rise design and a breathable, stretchy fabric that adapts to your changing body shape. The Over the Bump Pregnancy Brief offers full coverage and a soft, supportive waistband that comfortably accommodates your growing belly.
Leakproof Briefs
For new moms, leakproof underwear is a must-have. These briefs are designed with an absorbent layer that helps to prevent leakage from postpartum bleeding. They also come in various styles such as hipsters or briefs for extra coverage and support. Leakproof underwear can give new moms peace of mind while they navigate the changes in their bodies during the postpartum period. Hotmilk had a range of leakproof briefs in different styles and absorbency level. These are also great as period underwear once your cycle starts again.
Breathable Underwear
Breathable underwear is a great choice for pregnant women as they allow for air circulation in the vaginal area, reducing the risk of itchiness, infections, and discharge. A lot of our underwear is constructed from certified bamboo as the fabric is soft to the touch, stretchy, flexible, and comfortable. Breathable maternity underwear is ideal for everyday wear and can be worn under any type of clothing. All Hotmilk Maternity and postpartum briefs have been designed in breathable fabrics for comfort and style.
Disposable Mesh Underwear
For the first few days after giving birth, disposable mesh underwear may be an ideal choice for new mothers. With a high waist, allowing them to sit well above any sutures during recovery, mesh underwear is also intended to hold postpartum pads in place.
How Many Pairs of Postpartum Underwear do I Need?
Experience tells us you can never have enough, a newborn and its demands will see washing slide further and further down the list. And rightly so, there are more important things like quality baby snuggles to be had! Top up so you have enough for a week would be our advice!
Remember, each pregnancy and delivery is unique, and comfort levels can vary. Take the time to find what works best for you at each stage. Don't hesitate to invest in your comfort during this beautiful and transformative period of your life.
