Best maternity pads for after birth

Lil-Lets have always had our back when it comes to our feminine hygiene needs and, their range of maternity products is no different. Developed to make sure you're comfortable after giving birth, these Lil-Lets Maternity Pads are extra absorbent and have stay put wings to keep it in place.

One review said: "Not one for leaving reviews, but as a first-time mum, we all need one less thing to worry about. I'd tried a few brands before running out one night; ordered these on same-day delivery on Prime (winning, as I didn’t need to leave the house with a newborn or describe to my husband what I needed/where to find them) and they were perfect.

"Not only were they very absorbent, but they were also very thin, unlike most that make you feel like you have a nappy on. These Lil-Lets Maternity Pads covered all areas thanks to their large wings, plus I found they were breathable and comfortable, with no irritation of stitches. As a bonus, these pads are very discreet when you leave the house!"

Winner of the 2020 Gold Best Pregnancy/Maternity Product in the Mother&Baby Awards.

These 100 per cent Organyc Organic Cotton Maternity Pads are designed for your body. Not only do they absorb a heavy flow after you give birth, but they also help to encourage healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Our mum tester, Lydia, said: "I think this product is quite expensive for maternity pads, but for the comfort and protection they provide, it is worth it. I would choose this product over others because they are the widest, softest and most comfortable of others on the market that I have tried. I have and would continue to recommend these to friends that are expecting a baby, as they are a hospital bag essential."

Read our Organyc Maternity Pads review here.

As a new mum, you'll probably find that your priority shifts from design to practicality, and the Abena Premium Maternity Pads fit the bill. They are slightly bulky, but they provide you with the ultimate protection and are fast acting.

One mum said, "Just had my baby three weeks ago and can guarantee and recommend this product to everyone! It's softer than any other hygiene product I've tried for postnatal care. It's not irritating 'down there', it's kind to the skin so if you have stitches, it won't affect you.

"They're very big (massive really, but it's a good thing) in order to catch all the postnatal bleeding without you fearing that you might have 'spotty accidents' on your clothes, especially while going back home from hospital. Buy with confidence soon to be mummies."

Made from organic cotton, the Rael 100% Organic Cotton Menstrual Overnight Pads are perfect to wear postnatal as they are super absorbent and have advanced leak protection. They are also plastic free and contain no chemical nasties so they are gentle on skin too.

One review said: "I was relieved to have these and know that my afterbirth damage would be able to breath and heal chemical free with these organic pads. I expected heavy bleeding after birth but, whether it was just me or the pads, I never had any over flow or leakage as these were super absorbent!"

The Natracare - New Mother Maternity Pads are super absorbent and have a soft cotton cover, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Although these don't have wings, they're super soft and essential in any expectant mum's hospital bag.

One review said: "This were great for use after labor. They are super absorbent - I didn't leak once. They were soft enough that they didn't cause discomfort and didn't have the horrible plastic smell of some other pads (or any synthetic smell either). Added benefit that they are better for the environment than other products."

If you're searching for sustainable maternity pads, then this pack of Teamoy 10Pcs Reusable Sanitary Pads will be perfect for you. It has button snaps on the wings feature to ensure the pads stay in place and they're also machine washable.

One mum said: "So much better than disposable pads! Absorb loads. Don't leak and don't have that horrible smell. Just rinse out under the bath tap then chuck in washing machine with other washing. Clean up perfectly, don't stain. Only downside is they can slide back in your knickers as only held on with a popper. This has not actually been a problem and not had any leaks at the front but need to experiment with different knicker styles to get a snug fit."

Designed for use post birth, these My Little Star New Mum Maternity Pads have new mums in mind. As well as being a budget option, these extra long, thick pads have a super absorbent core to offer maximum comfort and protection, perfect for the first few days after birth.

One review said: "Brilliant pads and what you need for recovery after a baby. I used these for almost 4 weeks after having my baby and have no complaints. They did exactly what they need to. I experienced no leaks and felt they held very well."

Jude has a range of incontinence solutions which can be personalised to your unique needs. These include ultra-thin, super-soft, totally-biodegradable pads and liners. These discreet pads and liners can help with different levels of leakage to help you stay comfortable and dry. Jude also offer fast-absorbing leak proof incontinence underwear which is made from natural sustainable materials.

Review: "They are so comfortable to wear especially during this hot weather. I hardly know that I am wearing a ‘pad’. Good to know that better for the planet as well! None of my pads have ever leaked and I feel fresh and confident when wearing."