Two packs for your hospital bag. A few extras at home. And absolutely no need to ration them.
You've packed the tiny sleepsuits. The nappies. The going-home outfit that's probably smaller than anything you've ever owned.
But what about the nappies for you?
Yes, we're talking maternity pads.
Because one thing that doesn't always make it into conversations about giving birth is just how much bleeding happens afterwards. And if you're wondering how many maternity pads you'll actually need, you're certainly not the first.
The good news? There's some pretty straightforward guidance.
How many maternity pads should you pack in your hospital bag?
The NHS recommends packing two packets of maternity pads in your hospital bag.
That's a good starting point, whether you're planning a vaginal birth or a caesarean.
Postpartum bleeding is usually heaviest immediately after birth, and you may need to change your pad frequently during those first few days.
Of course, how many you actually use will depend on your bleeding, how long you're in hospital and how often you're changing them.
It's worth having some extra pads ready at home, or asking your birth partner to bring more if needed.
And if you're preparing your hospital bag, the NHS hospital bag checklist is a useful place to start.
How many maternity pads will you need in the first week?
There's no magic number.
Some people experience heavier postpartum bleeding than others, and the amount of protection you need can change quite quickly.
During the first few days, you might need to change your maternity pad every couple of hours. As bleeding becomes lighter, you may find you're changing them less frequently, although regular changes are still important for hygiene and comfort.
For a rough idea of how quickly your supply could disappear:
| Pad changes per day | Pads used over 7 days |
|---|---|
| 4 | 28 |
| 6 | 42 |
| 8 | 56 |
| 10 | 70 |
These are simply planning examples, not recommended changing schedules or measures of normal blood loss. Always change your pad when needed, and follow your midwife's advice.
Rather than buying exactly enough for a certain number of days, we'd recommend starting with your hospital bag supply and keeping some additional packs at home.
After all, nobody wants to be sending someone out on an emergency maternity pad mission at 2am.
Why do you need so many maternity pads after birth?
Because postpartum bleeding isn't a period.
After giving birth, your body sheds blood, mucus and tissue from your uterus as it recovers from pregnancy.
This bleeding is called lochia, and it happens after both vaginal and caesarean births.
It's generally heavier in the first few days, before gradually becoming lighter and changing colour over the following weeks.
According to the NHS, postpartum bleeding usually stops after around six to eight weeks, although it can last longer.
But that doesn't mean you'll need heavy-duty maternity pads for the entire time.
Which brings us to our next question.
How long will you need maternity pads after giving birth?
Your protection needs will probably change as your body recovers.
The first few days: Lochia is usually at its heaviest. This is when dedicated maternity pads, with extra absorbency and coverage, can be particularly useful.
The following weeks: As bleeding becomes lighter, you may find that heavy-flow period pads offer enough protection.
The lighter days: Towards the end of postpartum bleeding, panty liners may be suitable for spotting or light discharge.
There's no fixed timetable for switching between products. What matters is choosing protection that's comfortable and absorbent enough for your flow.
And if your bleeding becomes heavier rather than gradually lighter, speak to your midwife or healthcare professional.
How often should you change a maternity pad?
Regularly, even if it isn't completely full.
Changing your pad helps keep the area clean and comfortable while your body is healing, particularly if you have stitches.
NHS maternity guidance recommends changing pads around every four to six hours, or sooner if they're full. You may need more frequent changes in the earliest days after birth.
Always wash your hands before and after changing your pad.
And while maternity pads are designed for heavier bleeding, they shouldn't be used to manage potentially dangerous blood loss at home.
If you experience sudden, very heavy bleeding, particularly alongside dizziness, faintness or a pounding heartbeat, call 999.
For more information, read the NHS guidance on bleeding after birth.
What should you look for in maternity pads?
Not all maternity pads are made the same.
And when you're wearing them regularly while your body's recovering, a few things are worth considering.
- Extra coverage. Postpartum bleeding can be heavier and less predictable than a period, so longer, wider pads can offer more protection.
- Heavy-flow absorbency. Especially useful during those first few days when lochia is at its heaviest.
- A soft topsheet. Your vulva and surrounding skin may be tender, swollen or healing after birth.
- Secure wings. Because the last thing you need is a pad that twists, bunches or moves around every time you stand up.
- Materials you're comfortable wearing. When something's against your skin for weeks, it's worth knowing what's in it.
Meet Mooncup Maternity & Postpartum Pads
Soft where it matters. Strong where it counts.
Our NEW Mooncup Maternity & Postpartum Pads are designed specifically for heavy postpartum bleeding, lochia and discharge.
Extra-long and wide, with heavy-flow absorbency, secure wings and a soft 100% organic cotton topsheet that's gentle on tender, healing skin.
No SAPs, synthetic fragrances or dyes.
Made for every kind of birth, whether vaginal or caesarean.
Because while everyone's busy thinking about what the baby needs, we think the person who's just given birth deserves some attention, too.
A little preparation goes a long way
You don't need to stockpile six weeks' worth of maternity pads before your due date.
But having enough for those first few days, plus some extras ready at home, means one less thing to think about when your baby arrives.
Start with two packets in your hospital bag, keep a few more within easy reach and adjust your protection as your bleeding changes.
Care for the fourth. That bit when you're both in nappies.
Blog disclaimer
Our blog is intended to share information and ideas around periods, health, and sustainability. While we do our best to keep content accurate and up to date, things can change over time. The information here is not intended as medical advice — for any health-related concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. For more information on our claims, please see our Claims Page, and for the most up-to-date product information, please visit our Product Pages.
