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Oct 24, 2024

The 9 Best Postpartum Underwear of 2024, Tested by Real Moms

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Our top pick is Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear In This Article

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Our top pick is Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear

In This Article

People; Amazon; Frida; Bodily

There are many changes your body goes through after giving birth, especially during the first few weeks as you heal. Postpartum underwear provides the necessary support and comfort your body needs, but also gives you protection in the weeks after you give birth.

“If the birth was vaginal then it is likely there will be swelling and potentially stitches that need to heal. If the birth was via cesarean, then ideally the underwear will not have a band around the scar. It is normal to have postpartum bleeding for weeks following delivery, so underwear that can support a heavy pad is ideal, too.”—Sara B. Twogood, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education

This underwear is often seamless, high-waisted, and specifically designed to avoid irritating C-section scars, provide absorption for postpartum periods, and offer compression for extra support as your body recovers. We had six testers in various postpartum stages test 12 pairs of postpartum underwear for absorbency, odor control, comfort, fit, breathability, and value.

Thin and comfortable

No odor or leakage during testing

Slighty smoothing

Didn't bunch or require readjustment during wear

Light scent may not appeal to some

Always disposable panties are our top pick for postpartum underwear. As our tester said, “I felt comfortable sleeping and walking in these, and I always forgot they were on.” The underwear required no readjustment, felt soft, and had no leakage during the wear test, although our tester wore a pad due to heavy bleeding. Despite being in contact with witch hazel, body fluids, and Dermoplast, the material stayed dry, and the anti-leak material ensured all-day and night comfort.

Breathability is essential for postpartum underwear, and our tester never felt sweaty while wearing these, even though they weren't advertised as moisture-wicking. The underwear felt comfortable, smoothing, slightly compressing, and caused no irritation. However, it's important to be fully dry when putting them on to avoid discomfort (like slipping into damp leather pants).

Thanks to the odor-lock technology and a fresh scent, no odor was detected. The high-waisted, slightly high-cut design provided a secure fit for the tester’s changing belly, with no bunching. They can be worn for up to 12 hours, though may need replacement sooner than that depending on how heavy postpartum bleeding is.

Sizes: S-XXL | Fabric: Synthetic (including polypropylene, cellulose gel core) | Care Instructions: Disposable

“We sweat a lot postpartum due to hormonal shifts. So you don't want [postpartum underwear] to be too heavy.” — Yamel Belen, registered nurse and doula

High waist didn't dig into the skin

Soft and incredibly breathable

Works for both vaginal and C-section birth recovery

Waist tends to fall with wear

Don’t offer absorbance or odor protection

Some postpartum underwear are made to collect leaks and offer odor protection, while others are made to accommodate postpartum bodies that are recovering and changing. This five-pack of panties from Kindred Bravely is made for both vaginal and C-section births. They sit above the belly button, feature a wide waist that won’t dig into sensitive skin, are made with spandex for extra stretch, and easily accommodate pads.

Our tester found them very comfortable and soft, with the lace at the top adding a nice decorative touch without scratching or irritating. The fabric is breathable and non-restrictive. These don’t offer leak or odor protection, but they do accommodate a pad. Throughout the day, there was some readjustment required, but that’s due to the soft waistband. Another standout of this underwear is its breathability. Our tester reported that these were the most “breathable of the [postpartum] underwear I have tried,” thanks to the lightweight material that doesn’t cause sweating or moisture accumulation.

Sizes: S-1X | Fabric: Rayon, spandex, cotton | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry on low

Super-thin and stretchy

Significant step up from the hospital-provided pair

Can accommodate plenty of ice packs and pads

Limited sizing available

Not comfortable enough for long-term use

Frida's disposable microfiber and spandex underwear offer a step up from hospital options, providing stretchy, ultra-thin comfort with a papery texture. They're absorbent but designed to be worn with a pad, ideal for the first six weeks of recovery from both vaginal and C-section births.

With a couple of pads, they handled heavy bleeding and distributed moisture evenly. They seemed to prevent odors, despite lacking odor protection. The underwear didn't irritate the skin and felt comfortable, though they’re best suited for the postpartum period immediately following birth when relief is most needed. They can hold ice packs and pads but aren’t the softest option available. Still, they’re high-waisted, breathable, and keep the user sweat-free with their stretchy spandex design. While marketed for C-section recovery, they're suitable for anyone postpartum. They’re available in two sizes that can accommodate waists from 23 to 42 inches.

Sizes: Regular (28 to 42 inches), petite (23 to 34 inches) | Fabric: Microfiber, spandex | Care Instructions: Disposable

Washable and breathable

Comfortable for lounging, sleeping, and doing light errands

Not super supportive

These one-size-fits-all mesh boy shorts are stretchy, lightweight, and breathable. While they lack absorbent properties or odor protection, they pair well with a pad. The mesh material feels similar to hospital-provided underwear, but these are more substantial.

Our tester found them incredibly comfortable for sleeping, lounging, and walking, describing them as a “second skin” due to their softness. Pads fit securely, though they may shift since the fit isn’t very supportive. As they’re not compressive, they stretch by the end of the day but return to their original size after washing. However, they don’t offer much support at the waistband. Breathable and irritation-free, these Bodily mesh panties come in a three-pack. If you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable postpartum option without the need for compression, they are a solid postpartum choice.

Sizes: OS (2-16) | Fabric: Nylon, spandex | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold on delicate, line dry

Incredibly stretchy material

High waist doesn't irritate C-section incision

Can be worn during pregnancy too

Visible pilling and shedding during use

Belen dispels a common misconception about C-sections: Since you are “still bleeding [vaginally] with a cesarean,” you’re going to want the option to fit pads inside your postpartum underwear. Something that’s high-waisted and doesn’t risk brushing against a healing incision is also nice to have after a C-section, too. The Bodily All-In Panty is recommended by the brand if the user has had a C-section, thanks to its soft, elastic, and stretchy material that sits well above the waist and has a full back. It’s designed for maternity wear and can last beyond the immediate postpartum period, though it requires a pad as it lacks absorbency and odor control.

Our tester found this underwear comfortable, breathable, and not too tight. The micromodal and elastane materials offer good airflow, making this pair more comfortable than disposable options. However, some pilling occurred during and after wear, even after washing. It’s also best to wear them with looser clothing, as the panty line may show under leggings. Despite this, they are a solid option for post-C-section comfort.

Sizes: S-3X | Fabric: Oeko-Tex micromodal, elastane | Care Instructions: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low

Included gel packs can be heated or chilled

Slight compression is ideal for the postpartum period

Less breathable fabric than other options

The Fourth Trimester Panty by Kindred Bravely offers comfort and relief for postpartum aches, featuring a gel pack that can be heated or cooled for pain relief. The set includes one pair of underwear and two gel packs, which can be placed in the base to soothe perineal pain after vaginal birth, in the stomach opening for C-section pain or breastfeeding cramps, or in the back for cramps after delivery (or for menstrual cramps). The panties provide full coverage, a wide gusset for pads, and are made from soft, stretchy, lightly compressing fabric.

While the light compression material is ideal for light movement, our tester found it less comfortable for lounging or sleeping, causing some sweating at night. The gel packs add to the price, but the underwear can also be purchased separately at a lower cost. Overall, the compression helps keep the body secure, but this panty may not be the most comfortable for extended wear or rest.

Sizes: S-1X | Fabric: Nylon, spandex, cotton | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold on delicate setting, tumble dry low (panty), rinse, air dry (gel pack)

Reusable and machine-washable

Can be used beyond postpartum recovery

Slightly less breathable and can lead to sweating

Proof's machine-washable underwear is designed for menstrual bleeding, so it absorbs fluids and fights odors without a pad. This particular pair is for heavier flows, so it’s ideal for postpartum bleeding. It features multi-layered protection, holding up to four tampons' worth of discharge (and can eventually be used during the user’s period as well). Our tester, three weeks postpartum, found them effective for moderate bleeding, reporting no wetness, leaks, or odors, even after 24 hours of wear. They were comfortable to wear for activities outside the house, and the no-show edges allowed for discreet wear under most types of clothing. However, they’re not high-waisted, which may not be ideal for C-section recovery.

Though soft and comfortable, due to their ability to absorb fluid, these are less breathable than cotton or disposable underwear, so they can feel a bit damp from sweat over time. However, the ability to ditch a bulky pad makes them a great choice for postpartum bleeding.

Sizes: XS-XL | Fabric: Nylon, spandex, polyester, cotton | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, hang or lay flat to dry

Almost undetectable

Made for the maternity and postpartum periods

Might be best sized down

Kindred Bravely's briefs are designed for maternity, postpartum, and beyond, offering stretchy, lightweight comfort. While they lack absorbent properties and odor control, these thin, high-rise underwear can be paired with a pad for added protection.

Our tester found them “super light and airy to wear,” with a thin, stretchy fabric that’s non-restrictive — the opposite of compression underwear. According to our tester, they were also the most breathable pair they tried, feeling like “next to nothing.” However, sizing can be tricky. If you’re purchasing these during the maternity period, you’ll likely buy them true-to-size, as your body will be growing. However, if you buy them postpartum, you may want to size them down to avoid bunching or shifting as the body changes. Since they’re priced under $25, getting a smaller size for postpartum fit could be worthwhile.

Sizes: S-1X | Fabric: Oeko-Tex-certified nylon, spandex, cotton | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold on delicate setting, tumble dry low

Comfortable enough to wear during light workouts

Gusset includes odor protection

None noted

This underwear from the popular maternity brand Hatch is made from soft pima cotton, known for its durability and wrinkle resistance, with a moisture-wicking bamboo viscose gusset. They come in several floral patterns and various colors, offering more variety than standard postpartum underwear.

Because of the odor resistance and the extra padding in the gusset, our tester felt that one could get away with not wearing a pad if they’re only experiencing light discharge (not postpartum bleeding). However, these can accommodate a pad, so they can be used for many stages of the fourth trimester. Moisture was distributed evenly and wasn’t felt throughout wear time. Our tester found them comfortable for both day and night wear, even during workouts under yoga pants. They held their shape well without being too tight, though they’re not very supportive. At $24 a pair, they’re pricier than some alternatives but remain comfortable as the body changes post-pregnancy.

Sizes: S-XL | Fabric: Pima cotton, spandex, bamboo viscose | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry on low

If you're in search of pospartum underwear, you might also be interested in these PEOPLE-Tested products that offer comfort and style for changing bodies.

The most important factor to look at when it comes to material is breathabiliity. Dr. Twogood recommends choosing an option that has a “stretchy, breathable fabric like cotton or a cotton blend.” (Disposable underwear is also an option.) The style of underwear you buy depends on your preference, but you may be most comfortable in styles that are high-waisted enough to provide some gentle support. If you had a C-section, you'll want to avoid waistbands that press on your incision.

A lot of times, new moms are told to look for postpartum underwear that has compression — similar to effective shapewear — especially if they’ve gone through a C-section. “Compression is a bit controversial,” Dr. Twogood says. “Some people swear by it and say it makes them feel stronger and steadier faster. Some people hate the way it makes them feel and cannot tolerate the constriction. It does not seem to change longer-term outcomes — it won't make your belly shrink or prevent the abdominal muscle separation called diastasis all by itself. I tell my patients if it helps with pain and discomfort, then use it. If it makes it worse, then don't.”

Dr. Twogood explains that postpartum bleeding can change week by week. “In general, people have less bleeding after a cesarean compared to a vaginal birth," she says. "Most people have heavy period-like bleeding for the first week or so that gradually lighten over time. By four to six weeks postpartum, it is common to have very light spotting or bleeding.” So you'll need postpartum underwear that can absorb blood and discharge or accommodate a disposable pad to protect you from leaks.

To test the best postpartum underwear, we recruited six testers in various stages of postpartum who had given birth both vaginally and by C-section.

Those that rated above a four with standout features made this PEOPLE Tested list.

Some postpartum underwear is single-use, so make sure you choose which option you prefer first. Follow the manufacturer’s directions when it comes to washing or hand-washing reusable options to help them last a lot longer.

Avoid bleach, fabric softener, ironing, and high temperatures with these types of underwear. Try to pre-soak the items to help get rid of blood before washing them. If the underwear itself is machine-washable, we recommend putting it in a mesh intimates bag to help keep it safe from other items in the laundry; we also recommend air-drying when possible.

Many people opt to wear postpartum underwear for the first four to six weeks after giving birth since these types of underwear help absorb more liquids. “Timing of this depends on many factors [like] type of birth (vaginal or cesarean) — if vaginal birth, how much recovery the vulva and vagina require and the amount of bleeding,” says Dr. Twogood. “There is no ‘right timing.' It's common for postpartum people to use the typical postpartum mesh underwear for a week or two before transitioning to wearing pads with underwear — most people need more time before transitioning back to thong underwear, though.”

Whether you're looking for traditional or plus-sized underwear, you may have to experiment with a few different sizes because you won’t be the same size as your maternity clothes after you give birth. Women often see a size reduction in their stomachs during their postpartum period. Typically, the uterus is expected to go back to its pre-pregnancy state around six months after you give birth.

Nikita Charuza is a freelance beauty and fashion editor (and new mom!) with almost a decade of digital media experience. She is also the founder of the "happy headcare" line Squigs Beauty. For this story, she interviewed Sara Twogood, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education.

Alida Nugent is a commerce writer for PEOPLE with an extensive background in commerce writing, editing, and strategy. She also writes for Food Network, HGTV, and Better Homes & Gardens. She specializes in tested and researched commerce content for household products, including outdoor, mattresses, vacuums, furniture, and small appliances. For this article, she digested the PEOPLE Tested insights and researched each product to determine the best postpartum underwear on this list.

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