The 9 Best Postpartum Underwear for the Fourth Trimester and Beyond, Tested by Real Moms

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People; Amazon; Frida; Bodily

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.Experts Say“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 EducationThisunderwear 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.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewMost Comfortable:Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Disposable:SALEFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear at Amazon$16$13Jump to ReviewBest Mesh:Bodily Care Mesh Undies at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest After C-Section:Bodily All-In Panty at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest with Ice Pack:Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty at Amazon$41Jump to ReviewBest for Postpartum Bleeding:SALEProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Hatch The Everyday Brief at Hatchcollection.comJump to ReviewBest Maternity Jeans:1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband at Nordstrom$59Jump to Review

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.

Experts Say“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

Experts Say

“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

Thisunderwear 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.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewMost Comfortable:Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Disposable:SALEFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear at Amazon$16$13Jump to ReviewBest Mesh:Bodily Care Mesh Undies at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest After C-Section:Bodily All-In Panty at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest with Ice Pack:Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty at Amazon$41Jump to ReviewBest for Postpartum Bleeding:SALEProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Hatch The Everyday Brief at Hatchcollection.comJump to ReviewBest Maternity Jeans:1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband at Nordstrom$59Jump to Review

Best Overall:Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewMost Comfortable:Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Disposable:SALEFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear at Amazon$16$13Jump to ReviewBest Mesh:Bodily Care Mesh Undies at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest After C-Section:Bodily All-In Panty at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest with Ice Pack:Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty at Amazon$41Jump to ReviewBest for Postpartum Bleeding:SALEProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear at Amazon$25$20Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief at Amazon$36Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Hatch The Everyday Brief at Hatchcollection.comJump to ReviewBest Maternity Jeans:1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband at Nordstrom$59Jump to Review

Best Overall:Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Overall:Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear at Amazon$20

Best Overall:

Most Comfortable:Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties at AmazonJump to Review

Most Comfortable:Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties at Amazon

Most Comfortable:

Best Disposable:SALEFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear at Amazon$16$13Jump to Review

Best Disposable:SALEFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear at Amazon$16$13

Best Disposable:

SALE

Best Mesh:Bodily Care Mesh Undies at Amazon$38Jump to Review

Best Mesh:Bodily Care Mesh Undies at Amazon$38

Best Mesh:

Best After C-Section:Bodily All-In Panty at Amazon$38Jump to Review

Best After C-Section:Bodily All-In Panty at Amazon$38

Best After C-Section:

Best with Ice Pack:Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty at Amazon$41Jump to Review

Best with Ice Pack:Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty at Amazon$41

Best with Ice Pack:

Best for Postpartum Bleeding:SALEProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear at Amazon$25$20Jump to Review

Best for Postpartum Bleeding:SALEProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear at Amazon$25$20

Best for Postpartum Bleeding:

Best Lightweight:Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief at Amazon$36Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief at Amazon$36

Best Lightweight:

Best Splurge:Hatch The Everyday Brief at Hatchcollection.comJump to Review

Best Splurge:Hatch The Everyday Brief at Hatchcollection.com

Best Splurge:

Best Maternity Jeans:1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband at Nordstrom$59Jump to Review

Best Maternity Jeans:1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband at Nordstrom$59

Best Maternity Jeans:

Best OverallAlways Discreet Maximum Protection UnderwearPHOTO: Always$20 at Amazon$14 at Target$28 at WalmartStar QualitiesThin and comfortableNo odor or leakage during testingSlighty smoothingDidn’t bunch or require readjustment during wearRed FlagsLight scent may not appeal to someAlways 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:DisposableExperts Say“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

Best OverallAlways Discreet Maximum Protection UnderwearPHOTO: Always$20 at Amazon$14 at Target$28 at Walmart

Best OverallAlways Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear

Best Overall

Always Discreet Maximum Protection Underwear

PHOTO: Always

$20 at Amazon$14 at Target$28 at Walmart

Star QualitiesThin and comfortableNo odor or leakage during testingSlighty smoothingDidn’t bunch or require readjustment during wearRed FlagsLight scent may not appeal to some

Star QualitiesThin and comfortableNo odor or leakage during testingSlighty smoothingDidn’t bunch or require readjustment during wear

Thin and comfortable

No odor or leakage during testing

Slighty smoothing

Didn’t bunch or require readjustment during wear

Red FlagsLight scent may not appeal to some

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

Experts Say“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

“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

Most ComfortableKindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum PantiesPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon$37 at Nordstrom$35 at TargetStar QualitiesHigh waist didn’t dig into the skinSoft and incredibly breathableWorks for both vaginal and C-section birth recoveryRed FlagsWaist tends to fall with wearDon’t offer absorbance or odor protectionSome 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

Most ComfortableKindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum PantiesPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon$37 at Nordstrom$35 at Target

Most ComfortableKindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties

Most Comfortable

Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Panties

PHOTO: Amazon

View on Amazon$37 at Nordstrom$35 at Target

Star QualitiesHigh waist didn’t dig into the skinSoft and incredibly breathableWorks for both vaginal and C-section birth recoveryRed FlagsWaist tends to fall with wearDon’t offer absorbance or odor protection

Star QualitiesHigh waist didn’t dig into the skinSoft and incredibly breathableWorks for both vaginal and C-section birth recovery

High waist didn’t dig into the skin

Soft and incredibly breathable

Works for both vaginal and C-section birth recovery

Red FlagsWaist tends to fall with wearDon’t offer absorbance or odor protection

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

Best DisposableFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum UnderwearPHOTO: Frida Mom$16$13 at Amazon$13 at TargetView on Frida.comStar QualitiesSuper-thin and stretchySignificant step up from the hospital-provided pairCan accommodate plenty of ice packs and padsRed FlagsLimited sizing availableNot comfortable enough for long-term useFrida’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

Best DisposableFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum UnderwearPHOTO: Frida Mom$16$13 at Amazon$13 at TargetView on Frida.com

Best DisposableFrida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear

Best Disposable

Frida Mom High-Waist Disposable Postpartum Underwear

PHOTO: Frida Mom

$16$13 at Amazon$13 at TargetView on Frida.com

Star QualitiesSuper-thin and stretchySignificant step up from the hospital-provided pairCan accommodate plenty of ice packs and padsRed FlagsLimited sizing availableNot comfortable enough for long-term use

Star QualitiesSuper-thin and stretchySignificant step up from the hospital-provided pairCan accommodate plenty of ice packs and pads

Super-thin and stretchy

Significant step up from the hospital-provided pair

Can accommodate plenty of ice packs and pads

Red FlagsLimited sizing availableNot comfortable enough for long-term use

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

Best MeshBodily Care Mesh UndiesPHOTO: Bodily$38 at Amazon

Best MeshBodily Care Mesh Undies

Best Mesh

Bodily Care Mesh Undies

PHOTO: Bodily

$38 at Amazon

Star QualitiesWashable and breathableComfortable for lounging, sleeping, and doing light errandsRed FlagsNot super supportive

Star QualitiesWashable and breathableComfortable for lounging, sleeping, and doing light errands

Washable and breathable

Comfortable for lounging, sleeping, and doing light errands

Red FlagsNot super supportive

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.

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

Best After C-SectionBodily All-In Panty

Best After C-Section

Bodily All-In Panty

Star QualitiesIncredibly stretchy materialHigh waist doesn’t irritate C-section incisionCan be worn during pregnancy tooRed FlagsVisible pilling and shedding during use

Star QualitiesIncredibly stretchy materialHigh waist doesn’t irritate C-section incisionCan be worn during pregnancy too

Incredibly stretchy material

High waist doesn’t irritate C-section incision

Can be worn during pregnancy too

Red FlagsVisible pilling and shedding during use

Visible pilling and shedding during use

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

Best with Ice PackKindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester PantyPHOTO: Kindred Bravely$41 at AmazonView on Kindredbravely.com

Best with Ice PackKindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty

Best with Ice Pack

Kindred Bravely Soothing Fourth Trimester Panty

PHOTO: Kindred Bravely

$41 at AmazonView on Kindredbravely.com

Star QualitiesIncluded gel packs can be heated or chilledSlight compression is ideal for the postpartum periodRed FlagsLess breathable fabric than other options

Star QualitiesIncluded gel packs can be heated or chilledSlight compression is ideal for the postpartum period

Included gel packs can be heated or chilled

Slight compression is ideal for the postpartum period

Red FlagsLess breathable fabric than other options

Less breathable fabric than other options

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)

Best for Postpartum BleedingProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period UnderwearPHOTO: Proof$25$20 at Amazon$25 at TargetView on Shopproof.comStar QualitiesReusable and machine-washableCan be used beyond postpartum recoveryRed FlagsSlightly less breathable and can lead to sweatingProof’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

Best for Postpartum BleedingProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period UnderwearPHOTO: Proof$25$20 at Amazon$25 at TargetView on Shopproof.com

Best for Postpartum BleedingProof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear

Best for Postpartum Bleeding

Proof Leakproof Essential Brief Period Underwear

PHOTO: Proof

$25$20 at Amazon$25 at TargetView on Shopproof.com

Star QualitiesReusable and machine-washableCan be used beyond postpartum recoveryRed FlagsSlightly less breathable and can lead to sweating

Star QualitiesReusable and machine-washableCan be used beyond postpartum recovery

Reusable and machine-washable

Can be used beyond postpartum recovery

Red FlagsSlightly less breathable and can lead to sweating

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

Best LightweightKindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum BriefPHOTO: kindred-bravely$36 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Kindredbravely.comStar QualitiesAlmost undetectableMade for the maternityandpostpartum periodsRed FlagsMight be best sized downKindred 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

Best LightweightKindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum BriefPHOTO: kindred-bravely$36 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Kindredbravely.com

Best LightweightKindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief

Best Lightweight

Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief

PHOTO: kindred-bravely

$36 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Kindredbravely.com

Star QualitiesAlmost undetectableMade for the maternityandpostpartum periodsRed FlagsMight be best sized down

Star QualitiesAlmost undetectableMade for the maternityandpostpartum periods

Almost undetectable

Made for the maternityandpostpartum periods

Red FlagsMight be best sized down

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

Best SplurgeHatch The Everyday BriefPHOTO: Hatch CollectionView on Hatchcollection.comStar QualitiesComfortable enough to wear during light workoutsGusset includes odor protectionRed FlagsNone notedThis 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

Best SplurgeHatch The Everyday BriefPHOTO: Hatch CollectionView on Hatchcollection.com

Best SplurgeHatch The Everyday Brief

Best Splurge

Hatch The Everyday Brief

PHOTO: Hatch Collection

View on Hatchcollection.com

Star QualitiesComfortable enough to wear during light workoutsGusset includes odor protectionRed FlagsNone noted

Star QualitiesComfortable enough to wear during light workoutsGusset includes odor protection

Comfortable enough to wear during light workouts

Gusset includes odor protection

Red FlagsNone noted

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.

1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband$59 at NordstromView on Lyst.comAlo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging$98 at Bloomingdales$108 at Aloyoga.com$120 at Net-a-PorterAnita Maximum Support Sports BraView on Anita.comSkims Seamless Sculpt Brief BodysuitView on Skims.com$36 at Saks Fifth Avenue$70 at Neiman Marcus

1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband$59 at NordstromView on Lyst.com

1822 Denim Maternity Better Butter Slim Straight with Bellyband

$59 at NordstromView on Lyst.com

Alo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging$98 at Bloomingdales$108 at Aloyoga.com$120 at Net-a-Porter

Alo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging

$98 at Bloomingdales$108 at Aloyoga.com$120 at Net-a-Porter

Anita Maximum Support Sports BraView on Anita.com

Anita Maximum Support Sports Bra

View on Anita.com

Skims Seamless Sculpt Brief BodysuitView on Skims.com$36 at Saks Fifth Avenue$70 at Neiman Marcus

Skims Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit

View on Skims.com$36 at Saks Fifth Avenue$70 at Neiman Marcus

What to Know About Postpartum Underwear

Material and Style

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 ofunderwear you buydepends 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.

Compression

Absorbency

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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 amesh intimates bagto 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 orplus-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 Charuzais a 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.

Our Expert PanelYamel Belenis a registered nurse, international board-certified lactation consultant, doula, and founder of One Love Doula Services in Tampa, Florida.Sara B. Twogood, M.D., is a board-certified OB/GYN in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education.

Our Expert Panel

Yamel Belenis a registered nurse, international board-certified lactation consultant, doula, and founder of One Love Doula Services in Tampa, Florida.Sara B. Twogood, M.D., is a board-certified OB/GYN in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education.

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source: people.com