Best postpartum underwear: Our pick of what to shop right now

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From Boots to Modibodi, add these postpartum essentials to your basket

From breast pumps to bibs, there's seemingly no end to the amount of stuff you need to buy when you become a parent. Although some things could probably do with being missed off your list next time – like all those adorable newborn sets that your kiddo will grow out of in a matter of minutes – other items are non-negotiable.

One such essential that every new parent needs is postpartum underwear. But with so many online stores promising to offer the best postpartum underwear, it can be difficult to work out what's actually worth your money – a task made even harder when you're running on no sleep and ready meals.

Well, we're here to answer your parental prayers as we've rounded up the best postpartum underwear you can shop right now. But first, a little lesson in what postpartum underwear actually is – and, why you'll be glad you bought some.

Postpartum underwear is underwear designed especially to be worn in the days and weeks after you give birth. Postpartum underwear is typically very absorbent or has enough space for large pads – which you'll certainly need, due to (normal!) post-birth bleeding called lochia. Essentially, postpartum knickers are like period pants, only bigger and way more absorbent.

Postpartum bleeding can last up to six weeks after birth, but is usually only heavy in the first few days. After that, the blood flow slows down over a few weeks, going from a pink/brown discharge to a yellowish one. For this reason, some parents opt to wear old pairs of pants (that they don't mind throwing away) in the weeks after welcoming their new arrival, but there are plenty of disposable options as well as high-quality reusable pants currently available.

As well as the practicalities, there's also a level of comfort to postpartum underwear. Squeezing into a pair of your pre-pregnancy lace panties won't exactly be comfortable, especially as your bump will take weeks to deflate. And, if you've had a caesarean, you'll want to wear soft, cotton pants that wont irritate your stitches – so that sexy lingerie in your bottom drawer will likely stay put for a while.

From five-star rated postpartum pants to highstreet brands that you can trust time and time again, here's our pick of the best postpartum underwear...

Available in eight sizes (ranging from XS to 4XL) these high-waisted postpartum pants come in a pack of four, and are made from Tencel™ fabric – which is softer than cotton.

Wuka's postpartum support pants can be worn for up to 12 hours, and feel dry until full. The 'super heavy' pants absorb up to 12 tampons' worth of flow, while the 'heavy' pants absorb at least four tampons' worth.

These reusable postpartum pants from Wuka are leak-proof and breathable, and the super stretch material means you'll feel comfy and supported, even when bloated.

These pants can be worn for up to 12 hours, and feel dry until full. The 'super heavy' pants absorb up to 12 tampons' worth of flow, while the 'heavy' pants absorb at least four tampons' worth.

Perfect for slipping on under your clothes in the winter months, this five-star rated postpartum bodysuit offers support and contouring.

Designed for postpartum bleeding, heavy discharge or light to moderate bladder leaks after birth, these postpartum control briefs from Modibodi are a must-buy, combining the benefits of shapewear with the brand's tried-and-tested absorbent lining.

Modibodi's postpartum briefs are available in seven sizes and offer moderate to heavy coverage, or the equivalent to two to three tampons.

Want something you can wear before and after baby? Modibodi's maternity briefs are just that! The brief's wide, v-shaped waistband has been designed to sit comfortably below your bump (before and after baby), and offers protection from pregnancy discharge, light bladder leaks and postpartum bleeding.

These high-waist disposable postpartum pants from Frida Mom (available at Boots) are perfect for parents recovering from a C-section.

These undies are designed to keep pads (and all other recovery layers) in place without compromising comfort and have a higher waistband that won’t roll down over your incision.

With almost two thousand five star ratings, these disposable pants from Always should be a must-pack in your hospital bag. These highly absorbent pants come in a pack of nine and in-built technology turns even heavy leaks to gel, all while neutralising odours instantly and continuously.

Another favourite when it comes to disposable postpartum pants, Tena's high-waisted incontinence undies are made from breathable fabric and fit comfortably and securely all while leaks are locked in.

Add a splash of colour to your postpartum underwear drawer with these hot pink, high-waisted briefs from lululemon. These pants are perfect for mamas on the move, made from naturally breathable fabric that is quick-drying and super stretchy!

These fan-fave briefs also feature chafe-resistant seams for maximum comfort and a smooth waistband that doesn't dig in.

Stock up on postpartum pants with Boody's full brief multipack, available in sets of two or four and in white, black or nude.

Boody's full briefs have almost five-star reviews across the board, and feature a silky smooth base layer that keeps you cool and comfortable. One happy customer even branded these the "most comfortable pants ever bought."

Made from soft, stretchy cotton, these postpartum pants from Seraphine have a seamless construction and offer mid-level compression. Seraphine's pack of two pants have been designed to provide a smoothing tummy control effect that'll keep you feeling supported throughout the postpartum period.

Available in 12 different sizes, ranging from a UK 6 to a UK 28, these heavy absorbency period briefs from Marks & Spencer are the perfect addition to your postpartum undies drawer.

Made in a full brief design for extra coverage, with added stretch for comfort, these pants feature a three-layer gusset (that draws moisture away from the body) and includes an anti-odour middle layer.

These high rise briefs from Marks & Spencer have plenty of space for postpartum pads, but are also great for slipping on over a pair of disposable panties.

Available in packs of seven, these pants will last you through the postpartum period and beyond.

Looking for a bargain? These disposable maternity briefs from Tesco come in at just 40 pence a piece. The soft, breathable fabric makes these pants perfect for everyday use during your postpartum period, and won't break the bank either.

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