New research shows that 92% of mums use postpartum underwear at least once while recovering. Your body goes through the most important changes after childbirth, and comfortable, supportive underwear plays a vital part in your healing process.
Postpartum recovery can be messy, tender and unpredictable. The right underwear can make a surprisingly big difference to how comfortable you feel day to day. In the early days you may need room for bulky pads, later you might prefer breathable reusables, and if you’ve had a C-section you’ll likely want waistlines and seams that don’t aggravate your incision.
This guide brings together practical picks for different stages of recovery, from disposable protection for heavy bleeding days to comfortable everyday underwear you’ll still want to wear long after postpartum.
Key Takeaways
Here are the essential insights from testing 7 top postpartum underwear options with real mothers:
- Different phases need different underwear. Disposable underwear can be easiest in the first heavy-bleeding days, while reusable options come into their own once bleeding settles.
- Prioritise comfort over compression at first. Many new mums find softer, non-restrictive styles (like boxer briefs) kinder on sensitive skin than tight shaping early on.
- C-section recovery needs thought. Look for waistbands that sit away from the incision, or specialist recovery styles designed for surgical support.
- Breathability matters. Cotton and bamboo are popular postpartum choices for airflow and comfort.
- Size up if you’re unsure. Most mums appreciate extra room for swelling, pads and changing body shape.
The key to successful postpartum recovery lies in having multiple underwear types ready - from disposable protection for heavy bleeding to specialised support for C-sections, ensuring comfort throughout your unique healing journey.
Flissie Women’s Bamboo Boxers
Image Source: www.flissie.com
The first British brand to make women's bamboo boxers has become a go-to comfort solution for new mums. Flissie Women's Bamboo Boxers bring something new to postpartum underwear with their longer-leg design and quality materials.
Comfort and Fit
These boxers really shine with their unique brief design that gives gentle support instead of compression. They stay in place all day, unlike regular options that tend to dig in or roll down.
You'll find sizes from UK 8 to 30 (Small to 3XL) to fit all body types. The brand even throws in free size swaps on your first pair, so you know you'll get the right fit when buying online.
The longer-leg design is what makes these boxers special. They extend further down the thigh and won't ride up - a huge plus when your body is still healing and extra-sensitive.
Material and Design
The star of the show is their premium bamboo fabric. It's made with a finer knit that feels softer than regular bamboo materials. This better fabric quality gives you:
· Enhanced breathability to keep you fresh all day
· Superior moisture-wicking properties that handle unexpected sweating
· Natural cooling effect to help with postpartum temperature changes
The boxer cut gives more coverage than regular briefs without feeling bulky. The seamless design means no irritation points - perfect for sensitive postpartum skin.
Postpartum Suitability
These boxers tackle common postpartum issues head-on. The longer legs protect against chafing when walking becomes tricky during recovery. The breathable bamboo lets air flow to healing areas without sacrificing comfort.
The soft fabric feels great against C-section scars, episiotomy sites, or sensitive skin. Flissie focuses on gentle comfort rather than compression, working with your body as it changes during recovery.
The brand aims to fix all those annoying underwear problems new mums usually "put up with" - no more riding up, digging in, rolling, or chafing. They're exactly what you need during the "I just want to feel held and comfy" phase.
Real Mum Insights
The numbers tell the story - over 2000+ women wear Flissie regularly, with 310+ 5★ reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. That's solid proof these boxers deliver on comfort and postpartum needs.
New customers love the risk-free trial approach. You can save £10 on your first bundle of 5 pairs, swap sizes if needed, and return them within 30 days if you're not happy.
These boxers aren't for everyone though. You might need something else if you want firm compression for medical reasons. The boxer style might also take some getting used to if you normally wear briefs.
But if you want breathable, chafe-free coverage that's super soft, Flissie boxers are a great choice for postpartum wear. They're especially good on sensitive skin days or when you're wearing dresses and leggings and need that extra protection against chafing.
Thinx Cotton Hi-Waist Underwear
Image Source: GoSupps.com
Thinx has made a name for itself over the last several years with specialised absorption technology that works well for periods and postpartum bleeding. Their Cotton Hi-Waist style stands out as a favourite among new mothers who want comfortable alternatives to regular pads and disposable underwear.
Comfort and Fit
The Cotton Hi-Waist Thinx underwear gives you a secure, snug fit that new mums find reassuring. You can get these in sizes from extra small to 4X [1], so they work well for all body types during recovery. The high-rise design sits nicely above your belly and helps while your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state.
The Cotton Hi-Waist doesn't stretch as much as some other postpartum options. They fit quite snugly, so they work better after you're a week or two past delivery [1]. These stay in place without bunching up or moving around while you wear them.
Material and Design
Thinx's Cotton Hi-Waist underwear uses layers designed to handle absorption:
· A moisture-wicking layer pulls fluid away from your body [2]
· A middle absorbent layer holds up to five regular tampons' worth of liquid [3]
· A leak-resistant bottom layer keeps everything contained [2]
Cotton serves as the main material, so they feel just like regular underwear despite the tech inside. Cotton makes these perfect if you have sensitive skin or get irritated easily. You can pick from three colors—rhubarb, black, and heather gray [1]—to keep some style during your postpartum time.
Thinx shows their steadfast dedication to safety by stating that PFAS chemicals "are not part of our product design" [4]. They team up with "manufacturers who are industry leaders in health and safety practices" [4] and use third-party testing to check product safety [4].
Postpartum Suitability
These underwear really shine during the later postpartum phase when bleeding gets lighter but hasn't stopped. You won't need extra pads or liners [1], which makes your postpartum care much simpler.
A mum mentioned using Thinx's "super absorbent" style for weeks after giving birth and called it "a relief to not have to wear the giant pads the hospital provides" [4]. Another new mum loved how the Thinx Hi-Waist helped keep her "postpartum belly in" [5], suggesting the high waistline gave some gentle support.
You can machine wash and reuse these [2], making them cost-effective for the whole postpartum period. Just rinse after wearing them, wash in cold water, and air dry (that's best) or tumble dry on low heat [6].
Real Mum Insights
Postpartum mums share some common thoughts about these. One mum who tried Thinx after delivery wished she'd known about them sooner: "I would have killed to know about Thinx for postpartum — not making that mistake again this pregnancy" [5].
Users love the security and leak protection. One mum noted they give her "a sense of security so I don't worry about leaks or bleeding through clothes" [4]. This peace of mind helps a lot when dealing with unpredictable postpartum bleeding.
Some mums use Thinx with light pads during their heaviest bleeding days to get maximum protection [7]. Later, as the flow gets lighter, the underwear works fine on its own.
These cost more than regular underwear—sets run about £73-89 [8]—but many users say they're worth it for the comfort and convenience during recovery. The main complaint focuses on durability, as some users notice loose threads after several months of regular use [6].
Thinx Cotton Hi-Waist strikes a good balance between comfort and function, but they work best after the initial heavy bleeding phase when your body starts to heal.
Upspring C-Panty C-Section Recovery Underwear
Image Source: Amazon UK
The Upspring C-Panty helps women recover from C-sections with its unique design. This special underwear uses targeted compression and a silicone panel to support healing after surgical delivery.
Comfort and Fit
The high-waisted design keeps the C-Panty above your incision site. It provides gentle support without causing irritation. The sizes work well for different body types - S/M fits pre-pregnancy pants size 2-8, L/XL fits size 10-16, and 1X/2X fits size 18-24 [9].
The upward compression technology makes this underwear special. Regular compression garments push down on sensitive incisions, but C-Panty pushes fluids up and away from your incision [10]. This smart design helps reduce pain and swelling.
The leg openings don't have seams, which means no panty lines and less irritation [9]. Many mums love that they can just pull these on - no fussy hooks, straps, or Velcro that could bother their healing incision [11].
Material and Design
The C-Panty uses mostly nylon and spandex (92% nylon, 8% spandex), and some versions have cotton too [10]. This mix creates a fabric that stretches and supports while moving with your body.
The built-in silicone panel is the star feature. This medical-grade silicone does several things:
· Supports your tender incision area
· Helps reduce how visible scars become
· Protects against clothing irritation
· Works instead of separate scar treatments [11]
The silicone panel doesn't stick and you can wash it by hand. You can wear your C-Panty 12-23 hours each day for the best results [10].
Postpartum Suitability
Your C-Panty supports you through each recovery phase:
Weeks 1-4: You can start wearing it 3-4 days after surgery. Put a panty liner over the silicone panel until your incision closes (usually 1-2 weeks) [10]. The gentle squeeze helps with swelling and supports weak ab muscles.
Weeks 5-12: You need support as you become more active. The C-Panty keeps helping with fluid buildup while the silicone works on your scar [10].
Months 3-6+: C-section scars take up to 12 months to mature. Long-term use helps your scar look better and gives you light tummy control [10].
Taking care of your C-Panty is simple - just wash by hand in cold water and let it dry flat [10].
Real Mum Insights
Mums give the C-Panty 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 13 reviews [12].
A mum two weeks after her C-section said: "It gives me the support I need around my C-section and belly. It doesn't feel too tight" [12]. Another mum wearing it for three weeks wrote: "I've had these since leaving the hospital. My waist is back and my tummy looks much better" [12].
Mums love how it supports their incision and gives gentle compression. A twin mum shared: "LOVE this product! Smart design and comfy... They hold everything in just right" [12].
Some wish they'd known about it sooner. "I wish I had these for my first C-section!" one mum said [12] - proof that this special underwear really helps during recovery.
Amazon Basics Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear
Image Source: Amazon UK
New mums need a reliable disposable option during those tough first weeks after giving birth. Amazon Basics Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear gives you an affordable solution that works well. Many new mothers say they're amazed by how comfortable these are for daily recovery.
Comfort and Fit
These disposable underwear feel surprisingly good to wear. Users describe them as "very roomy," and one mum mentioned that her usual 2X size gave her plenty of space [13]. This extra room really helps because your body needs space to heal after giving birth.
The underwear stays comfortable no matter what you're doing. The stretchy parts around the waist, legs, and back let you move freely whether you're walking, sitting, or lying down. You won't feel them digging in or causing any extra discomfort.
These underwear make life easier because you don't need separate pads. Many mums love that they "don't need to wear pads with this underwear, feeling 100 percent protected" thanks to the built-in absorbent layer.
Material and Design
The cotton-enhanced material feels soft against your skin and keeps you dry [14]. This combination is vital for postpartum comfort since healing tissues need protection that lets them breathe.
The design includes some really helpful features:
· Dri-Fit Technology keeps you feeling dry even after wearing them a while [15]
· Maximum Absorbency handles heavy postpartum bleeding well [15]
· Dual Odor Control System stops and prevents unwanted smells [14]
The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you feeling dry, which adds to your comfort during recovery. The absorbent core covers enough area to give you complete protection without moving around or bunching up.
Postpartum Suitability
We used these disposable underwear mostly during those original postpartum days with the heaviest bleeding. They absorb enough to handle substantial flow, so you won't worry about leaks or changing too often [15].
The cotton-enhanced material works great for postpartum use because it won't irritate your skin - something you really care about when sensitive areas need long-term protection. You won't have extra laundry to deal with either, which helps a lot when you're learning to be a new mum.
C-section mums will find the elastic waistband sits nicely without pressing on their incision, though these aren't specially made for C-section support.
Real Mum Insights
Real mums back up how useful these underwear are. One mum enthusiastically shared, "The Amazon basics incontinence underwear are so comfy!" [13]. Another mum pointed out the protection: "I'm very pleased with the absorbency and leak protection these offer" [14].
The numbers tell a great story too - would tell their friends to buy these, based on 87,504 reviews 84% of reviewers[14]. That shows how happy people are with how well they work.
Mums love how breathable they are. One said: "I love how soft and breathable these are, very comfortable to wear" [14]. Another mum praised their overnight protection: "These are great for overnight use, they keep me feeling dry and protected" [14].
Many first-time users say they're surprised by the comfort level, especially those who weren't sure about trying "adult diapers" after giving birth. Once they try them, they often become big fans of this simple solution that helps manage postpartum bleeding comfortably and with dignity.
Fruit of the Loom Eversoft Cotton Briefs
Image Source: Amazon.ca
Budget-smart new mums look for practical underwear that combines comfort with value. Fruit of the Loom Eversoft Cotton Briefs make an excellent daily choice at GBP 0.79 per pair[1]. Many postpartum women love these simple basics that offer reliable comfort without breaking the bank.
Comfort and Fit
Fruit of the Loom's briefs have a classic design that "stretches and stays put," say mums who keep wearing them [16]. The sizes range from 5 to 14 plus and fit hips between 36-63.5 inches [16]. This makes them available to women of all shapes during recovery.
Mum Leah Rocketto chose these briefs because they "were roomy enough to accommodate the padsicles needed for vaginal birth recovery, and high-waisted enough so as not to irritate a c-section scar" [16]. She adds: "I have a sort of large butt, and most underwear can ride up. But the Fruit of the Loom briefs provided plenty of rear coverage to prevent that from happening and causing additional discomfort in the postpartum phase" [16].
Material and Design
The briefs mostly use , which doctors recommend for postpartum wear 100% cotton[1]. Some styles blend 50% cotton with 50% polyester [1]. Cotton creates breathable comfort that helps healing tissues.
These classic briefs sit just below the belly button with full coverage [17]. Doctors stress that cotton underwear reduces irritation and infection risk while absorbing leaks well [18].
You'll find various colors and styles, with brief and hi-cut options working best after birth [1]. Every style includes a tag-free design and 100% cotton liner that feels gentle on sensitive skin [17].
Postpartum Suitability
These underwear work well after birth because they're comfy and almost disposable—you won't feel bad tossing a pair after heavy leaks [1].
Many mums buy several packs knowing laundry won't be a priority. One mum shared: "I ended up buying two packs because I had a feeling laundry would not be a priority in the postpartum days...and I was right" [16].
The roomy fit works great with postpartum pads and gives plenty of space for healing. A mum honestly shared: "They are some granny panties, but I'm so much more comfortable than I was.... I don't think I'll have any issues with those arm-length postpartum pads fitting in these" [16].
Real Mum Insights
Mums' feedback shows these underwear's practical benefits. Unlike specialised postpartum options, these briefs help during recovery and work well for everyday use later [1].
One mum put it simply: "They won't be flattering but they will be comfortable and be able to accommodate your postpartum belly with more than enough room for pads" [16]. This practical viewpoint shows what matters most during recovery—comfort over style.
These simple cotton briefs might not have fancy features like pricier options. Yet they deliver everything needed for postpartum comfort: breathability, absorbency, and full coverage at a great price.
Intimate Portal Under-the-Bump Postpartum Knickers
Image Source: Neione
Intimate Portal Under-the-Bump Postpartum Knickers provide new mothers with breathable comfort without high-waisted pressure. These knickers feel like a second skin and are a great way to get support during your recovery trip.
Comfort and Fit
These knickers have a signature crossover design that sits below your bump or incision site. You get complete coverage while avoiding unwanted pressure. Many mothers love how the V-shaped waistline curves naturally under the belly, describing it as "ultimate comfort" [19].
The knickers adapt well to changing body shapes. A happy customer explains: "I was 140 lbs. and a size medium underwear pre-pregnancy" and found the large size perfect at 160 lbs. [19]. Users consistently say these knickers "fit better than any underwear I've ever had" [19]. This matters especially when you have wider hips.
Material and Design
Premium fabric makes these knickers special - 95% refined cotton with 5% spandex [20]. This creates perfect balance between stretch and softness. The design includes thoughtful features:
· Double-layered front panel providing extra support and modesty [4]
· Full rear coverage preventing visible panty lines [21]
· Light-colored cotton lining allowing easy detection of unusual spotting [21]
The material meets Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certification. Lab tests confirm these knickers are free from harmful chemicals and heavy metals [21].
Postpartum Suitability
C-section recovery becomes easier with these knickers. The low-rise design stays away from incisions, "making recovery much easier" [21]. Breathable cotton-rich fabric helps healing areas get proper airflow without compromising comfort [4].
Late-pregnancy mothers praise their versatility too: "I did size up because I wanted to be extra comfy, and make sure they fit as my belly grew" [21]. You can wear them from early pregnancy through extended postpartum recovery.
Real Mum Insights
Mothers share consistent positive experiences. One mum said: "These are beyond comfortable and put no pressure on your belly like normal underwear" [19]. Another mum loved them so much she shared: "I have been wearing intimate portal undies from Amazon for like 3 months when I wasn't even pregnant" [22].
The knickers stay in place without uncomfortable bunching or rolling during activities. A user put it simply: "No wedgies!" [19] - this matters a lot during recovery.
Intimate Portal Under-the-Bump Knickers give you excellent value for postpartum comfort. They balance gentle support with breathable coverage and keep sensitive healing areas comfortable.
Seraphine Vivette Postnatal Shaping Briefs
Image Source: Amazon UK
- GENTLE POSTPARTUM SUPPORT: These postpartum panties provide mid-level compression and women’s shapewear tummy control, making them ideal postpartum underwear for women seeking comfort, support, and confidence throughout their day
- SEAMLESS COMFORT ALL DAY: Crafted with a soft stretch cotton blend, this underwear shapewear for women moves with your body for a smooth, breathable fit that stays discreet under clothes, from morning routines to bedtime
- TUMMY CONTROL THAT FLATTERS: Designed as high waisted tummy control underwear for women, these postpartum briefs shape your midsection gently while delivering the support needed in the early stages after birth and beyond
- IDEAL FOR DAILY WEAR: This set of 2 post-maternity panties combines function and ease—ideal for rotating through your week and discreet enough to wear under leggings, dresses, or loungewear for added shaping
- POST-MATERNITY ESSENTIAL: Blending the benefits of postpartum panties with compression underwear for women, this style helps smooth and shape while delivering the softness and breathability you need in post-maternity shapewear
Comparison Table
|
Product Name |
Material Composition |
Size Range |
Key Features |
Best Suited For |
Special Benefits |
Price/Value Notes |
|
FlissieWomen's Bamboo Boxers |
Premium bamboo fabric |
UK 8-30 (S-3XL) |
Longer legs, Seamless design, Prevents chafing |
Postpartum comfort, Sensitive skin |
Better airflow, Pulls moisture away, Naturally cooling |
£10 off first bundle of 5 pairs, Free size swaps |
|
Thinx Cotton Hi-Waist |
Cotton with multi-layered design |
XS-4X |
Multi-layer absorption tech, High waist |
Later postpartum phase, Light-medium bleeding |
Absorbs like 5 tampons, Machine washable |
£73-89 per set |
|
Upspring C-Panty |
92% nylon, 8% spandex |
S/M (2-8), L/XL (10-16), 1X/2X (18-24) |
Silicone panel, Upward compression |
C-section recovery |
Reduces scarring, Focused compression, Protects incision |
Not mentioned |
|
Amazon Basics Incontinence |
Cotton-rich material |
Not specified |
Dri-Fit Tech, Maximum absorbency, Double odor control |
Early postpartum heavy bleeding |
Easy disposal, Stays dry, Controls odor |
Budget-friendly, disposable |
|
Fruit of the Loom Eversoft |
100% cotton or 50/50 cotton-polyester |
Size 5-14 plus (36-63.5" hips) |
No tags, Full coverage, Cotton liner |
Budget-conscious postpartum care |
Breathes well, Fits pads easily |
£0.79 per pair |
|
Intimate Portal Under-the-Bump |
95% cotton, 5% spandex |
Not specified |
V-shaped waist, Double-layer front |
C-section recovery, Late pregnancy |
Avoids incision area, Covers back fully |
Not mentioned |
|
Seraphine Vivette |
Not mentioned |
Not mentioned |
Not mentioned |
Not mentioned |
Not mentioned |
Not mentioned |
Conclusion
The right postpartum underwear can substantially affect how comfortable you feel during recovery after childbirth. Most new mums don't think about it much, but good underwear becomes crucial in those tough first weeks when your body goes through major changes.
Our list includes options that meet different postpartum needs. Flissie Women's Bamboo Boxers give you premium softness and their longer-leg design prevents chafing - perfect for days when your skin feels sensitive. Thinx Cotton Hi-Waist comes with great absorption tech for lighter bleeding days and stays comfortable. The Upspring C-Panty's innovative silicone panel gives specialised support for C-section recovery.
Your postpartum experience moves through different stages, and you'll need different underwear solutions. Amazon Basics disposables work great for heavy bleeding days, and Fruit of the Loom Eversoft Cotton Briefs give you comfort without breaking the bank. Intimate Portal's under-the-bump design won't put pressure on healing incisions, especially when you have a C-section recovery.
Let your body's changes, healing needs, and priorities guide which postpartum underwear you pick. Many mums find it helpful to mix and match - maybe even using disposables for the original few days, supportive pairs when active, and comfy options like Flissie's bamboo boxers for everyday use.
Note that your postpartum recovery needs proper support. Getting underwear made just for this special time gives you physical comfort and peace of mind. Of course, your healing body will thank you for thinking this over, letting you focus on what really counts - bonding with your new baby.
FAQs
Q1. How long should I wear postpartum underwear? Most women wear postpartum underwear for about 6 weeks after delivery, which is typically how long postpartum bleeding lasts. However, you may find them comfortable for several months as your body continues to heal and change.
Q2. What features should I look for in postpartum underwear? Look for underwear with high waistbands for C-section support, absorbent materials for bleeding, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo, and stretchy designs to accommodate your changing body. Comfort and proper coverage are key.
Q3. Can I use regular underwear instead of specialised postpartum options? While you can use regular underwear, specialised postpartum options are designed to provide better support, absorbency, and comfort during recovery. They often have features like higher waistbands and stretchier materials that regular underwear may lack.
Q4. Are disposable or reusable postpartum underwear better? Both have their advantages. Disposable options are convenient for the initial heavy bleeding days, while reusable ones are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly for long-term use. Many women use a combination of both throughout their recovery.
Q5. How do I choose the right size for postpartum underwear? It's generally recommended to size up from your pre-pregnancy size to accommodate postpartum changes. Look for brands that offer specific sizing guides for postpartum wear. Remember, comfort is more important than a snug fit during this time.
References
[1] - https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-postpartum-underwear/
[2] - https://www.thinx.com/pages/postpartum
[3] - https://fitnessista.com/thinx-review-and-are-they-worth-it/
[4] - https://www.emmasdiary.co.uk/baby-products/postpartum-underwear
[5] - https://www.thinx.com/blogs/periodical/11-moms-on-postpartum-bodies
[6] - https://www.alexsiapriolo.com/blog/period-underwear-knix-vs-thinx
[8] - https://www.thinx.com/collections/period-hi-waist
[12] - https://figure8moms.com/reviews/11522/c-panty-high-waist-c-section-recovery-underwear
[14] - https://www.bestchoice.com/review/Amazon-Basics-Incontinence-Postpartum-Underwear-E6ikarem2r
[16] - https://www.babycenter.com/baby-products/maternity/best-postpartum-underwear_40006636
[17] - https://www.fruit.com/p/women-s-beyondsoft-brief-panty-assorted-12-pack/12DBSBR
[18] - https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g28570640/postpartum-underwear/
[19] - https://intimateportal.com/
[20] - https://www.mumsnet.com/swearsby/best-maternity-underwear
[21] - https://intimateportal.com/products/intimate-portal-crossover-maternity-bikini-essentials-6-pack
[22] -https://www.reddit.com/r/BabyBumps/comments/14tmku2/underwear/
